MYKHAILO Podolyak, a key adviser to Ukraine’s President Zelensky, faced criticism after commenting on India and China.
He initially said these countries had “low intellectual potential” but later clarified his remarks, blaming “Russian propaganda” for the uproar.
In an interview, Podolyak had criticized India and China, saying they lacked the ability to understand the consequences of their actions, which he attributed to their “low intellectual potential.” His comments stirred controversy, especially in India.
“The problem with India and China, and so on, the problem of these countries is that they do not analyze the consequences of their own moves.”
“There is weak intellectual potential in these countries, unfortunately.”
“Sure, they are invested in science.”
“Yes, India sent today a lunar rover, and it already drives on the surface of the Moon.”
“But it doesn’t indicate that this country [India] exactly understands what the modern world is about.”
“These countries earn [money] today on this war.”
“They effectively earn [money], just like the Republic of Turkiye, and that is principally their national interest.”
“It sounds nice.”
“We meet the needs of our national interests.”
“So they get the opportunity to buy cheaper raw materials,” according to Mykhailo Podolyak, Adviser to Ukrainian Pres. Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Podolyak responded to the criticism on social media, saying his words were taken out of context and distorted by “Russian propaganda” to create conflict. While he didn’t deny making the comments, he sought to provide context.
He clarified that countries like Turkey, India, and China were rightfully seeking global roles.
He stressed the importance of stability, predictability, and adherence to international law on the global stage, which he believed Russia was undermining. Podoliak urged great powers to work together for a stable world.
The remarks of Zelenskyy’s top aide drew criticism from many Indians on X, formerly known as Twitter, while the Foreign Ministry of China demanded clarification.
Previously, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister had criticized the G20 Summit for not inviting them and said that the event held in India was nothing to be proud of.
