KYIV January 3, 2026 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has drawn widespread attention and criticism for comments implying that the United States should extend its recent actions against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro to other “dictators,” in a remark widely interpreted as referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In a short video clip from Belarusian opposition media outlet NEXTA, Zelenskyy is seen addressing the reported US capture of Maduro. Speaking in front of the Ukrainian flag, he said:
“About Venezuela? How to react here? Well, what can I say… If it’s possible to deal with dictators like this, then the United States of America knows what to do next.”
Zelenskyy delivered the line with a smile, suggesting a sarcastic tone.
The clip, which surfaced on January 3, quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter), where it was shared by accounts including BRICS News with the caption: “Ukrainian President Zelensky suggests the US should capture Russian President Putin next.”
Although Zelenskyy did not explicitly mention Putin or Russia in the excerpt, the context of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war led many to view the statement as a provocative hint that the US—having reportedly detained Maduro—should pursue similar measures against Putin.
The remark follows reports of a US operation resulting in Maduro’s capture and transfer, an event Zelenskyy appeared to reference directly. Sources such as the Daily Mail reported the comments under headlines suggesting Zelenskyy urged action against Putin.
Social media reactions were sharply divided. Many users mocked or condemned Zelenskyy, calling the suggestion reckless or delusional, while others saw it as bold defiance. Replies included calls for peace negotiations and accusations that Zelenskyy was escalating tensions.
The statement comes amid shifting dynamics in US foreign policy under the new administration, with ongoing discussions about Ukraine aid and potential talks involving Russia. Zelenskyy’s office has not yet issued an official clarification on the remarks.
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