Scandal on social networks: Saakashvili’s former press secretary supported Petrov

Former press secretary of Mikhail Saakashvili, Darina Chyzh, has publicly defended the so-called “black political strategist” Vladimir Petrov. Her post has sparked a wave of harsh criticism from journalists, politicians, and the military.

In her post, Chyzh stated that Petrov allegedly “systematically and stubbornly works for the Ukrainian narrative,” and also called for “not to destroy your own” at a time of public pressure on him.
“One may have different opinions about the style and sharpness, but the result of his work is hard to deny,” she wrote.

In response, TV presenter Yanina Sokolova released a video with Petrov’s public statements in which he accused the Armed Forces of Ukraine of shelling civilians in Donetsk.
“It’s sad to read this. Maybe you’re not aware – so read it,” Sokolova wrote.

People’s Deputy Viktoriya Syumar stated that Petrov’s activities have nothing to do with pro-Ukrainian communication.
“Hiring aunts, making up lies for money and posting them in anonymous Telegram channels is the Russian style, not the Ukrainian narrative,” she wrote.

Other public figures also joined the criticism. Dmitry Bykov called Petrov a “canned food” capable of working for both the authorities and the enemy. Dmitry Gutman noted that his negative opinion of Petrov was formed several years ago.

The military also reacted sharply to Chyzh’s post. In particular, Roman Yakovlev suggested that Petrov “swap places” and go to the front, and Kyryl Zadunayskyi stated that protecting people with anti-Ukrainian narratives during the war is unacceptable.

It was previously reported that the Security Service of Ukraine opened a criminal case for high treason against the host of the Iceland channel, Volodymyr Petrov.

As a reminder, political strategist and host of the YouTube channel “Icelandia” Volodymyr Petrov left his position at the state institution “National War Memorial Cemetery” of his own free will.