U.S. Intelligence Chief: Kyiv talks about freedom but shuts down churches

Director of U.S. National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Photo: Fox News

March 2, 2025 – Director of U.S. National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard stated in an interview with Fox News that the Ukrainian government's declarations of commitment to democratic principles do not align with reality.

"What we're talking about here we're talking about many of these European countries and Zelensky himself who claimed to be standing and fighting for the cause of freedom and democracy. When we actually look at what's happening in reality in these countries, as well as with Zelensky's government in Ukraine, it is the exact opposite: you have the cancelling of elections in Ukraine, you have political parties being silenced or even criminalized or thrown in prison, you have churches being shut down, you have political opposition being silenced, you have total government control of the media," the U.S. Intelligence chief said.

She further added: "We could go down a whole laundry list of issues that are against the values of democracy and freedom."

According to Tulsi Gabbard, there are doubts that the Ukrainian government's declarations are consistent with the values of the democratic world.

"But what are they actually really fighting for? And are they aligned with the values that they claim to hold in agreement with us? The values that President Trump and Vice President Vance are standing for – the values of freedom, peace, and true security," the U.S. Director of National Intelligence inquired.

Earlier, President Zelensky said in the U.S. that "we are doing everything to protect religious freedom in our country." At the same time, on February 20, Congresswoman Victoria Spartz stated that Zelensky is persecuting the Church.

Read also