After Zelenskyy Criticism, Kyiv Mayor Calls for ‘Political Dancing’

• The Ukrainian President Zelenskyy criticized the mayor of Kyiv’s inaction during the conflict.
• Telegram’s Mayor Vitali Klitschko responded publicly to his efforts.
• After Russia’s bombardment, Ukraine is bracing themselves for a brutal winter.

After Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian President, accused Vitali Klitschko in Kyiv of being not serious in responding to Russia’s recent wartime aggressions, Mayor Vitali Klitschko responded on Telegram.

“Today, when everyone must work together, some political dances begin,” Klitschko, a Hall of Fame boxer, wrote, according to Al Jazeera. “In Kyiv,” we do everything possible to provide life support for the capital and the comfort of its inhabitants. In difficult conditions.”

Russia’s unprovoked aggression against Ukraine has been ongoing since February. Russia has suffered numerous losses. According to The Washington Post it controls only 17% of Ukraine. This percentage is the lowest since April.

According to NBC News, Ukrainians are preparing for a brutal and deadly winter after heavy Russian bombardment has flooded the country’s power grid.

In Friday’s address, President Volodymyr Zilenskyy stated in part that Klitschko is not meeting the needs people of Kyiv. 

“Unfortunately local authorities have not performed well across all cities. In particular, there are a lot of complaints in Kyiv … To put it mildly, more work is needed,” Zelenskyy said. 

“Please pay close attention. “Kyiv residents deserve more protection,” he said. I expect the mayor’s staff to do quality work.”

Klitschko’s Sunday rebuttal continues: “I don’t want, especially in this situation, to get into political battles.” It’s ridiculous.”

“This isn’t nice, to be mild. Klitschko added, drawing a parallel with Zelenskyy’s earlier remarks. 

Tensions between the two parties are nothing new. According to NPR, Klitschko did not support Zelenskyy prior to his 2019 election. According to The Ukrainian Weekly, Zelenskyy attempted to remove Klitschko as his mayor role that year.