Ukrainian President Zelensky stated at a press conference on Friday (November 26) that Ukraine had discovered an attempted coup conspiracy involving Russians, which was originally scheduled to take place next week.
Zelensky did not provide all the details of the coup conspiracy, nor did he accuse the Russian government of participating in it, although he also detailed the threat of Russia’s military escalation at the press conference and said Ukraine would be prepared for it.
The Kremlin quickly denied involvement in any coup conspiracy, saying it had no plans to participate in such operations.
Russia has been building troops near the border with Ukraine. In recent days, Kiev, the United States, and NATO have all expressed concern about possible Russian attacks — the Kremlin considers this statement to be false and alarmist.
“We are not only facing challenges and possible escalations from the Russian Federation-we also have huge internal challenges. I have received news that our country will have a coup d’etat from December 1st to 2nd,” Zelensky said.
Zelensky added that Ukraine has recordings as evidence of the coup conspiracy.
Moscow and Kiev have criticized the escalation of tensions in recent weeks, sparking fears that the prolonged conflict between Ukraine and Russia-backed separatists may lead to a new open war.
“We have complete control of our borders and are fully prepared for any upgrades,” Zelensky said.
The head of Ukrainian military intelligence told the Military Times last week that Russia has assembled more than 92,000 soldiers on the Ukrainian border and is preparing to launch an attack in late January or early February.
Ukraine, which wants to join the NATO military alliance, received a large amount of American ammunition and javelin missiles earlier this year, which triggered criticism from Moscow.
Zelensky also stated that his chief of staff, Andrei Yermark, will soon contact Russian representatives regarding the impasse between the two countries. In addition, Yermak said he would contact Dmitry Kozak, a senior official of the Kremlin.
