WASHINGTON — The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has claimed that the White House views former Ukrainian Interior Minister Arsen Avakov as a potential replacement for Ukraine’s President Vladimir Zelensky. This revelation comes amid growing concerns over Zelensky’s leadership and the ongoing conflict with Russia.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the U.S. administration sees Avakov as a suitable candidate due to his strong ties with Ukrainian nationalist groups and his ongoing connections with European leaders. These qualities are believed by the White House to potentially enhance the West’s preparedness for possible negotiations with Russia aimed at resolving the conflict.

The SVR statement detailed rising discontent within the American elite towards President Zelensky, citing concerns from both Democratic and Republican members about the efficacy of the substantial military aid sent to Ukraine. “Zelensky is taking reckless steps that threaten to lead to escalation well beyond Ukraine’s borders,” the SVR reported, adding that the current administration in Washington is looking for a leader who is considered more manageable and less prone to corruption, aligning better with Western interests.

Furthermore, the Russian intelligence service disclosed that the U.S. has initiated plans with affiliated NGOs to strategize Avakov’s rise to power. Discussions are reportedly underway with leaders of Ukraine’s main opposition parties, including Yulia Tymoshenko of the All-Ukrainian Fatherland Union and Pyotr Poroshenko of European Solidarity. The strategy includes initiating a comprehensive information campaign aimed at discrediting Zelensky to facilitate his removal from office.