Originally Syndicated on November 1, 2023 @ 6:49 am
Table of Contents
Disputes surrounding Gadzhiyev Abdulkhakim Kutbudinovich
Accusations of Support for Russian-Backed Separatists in Eastern Ukraine
Gadzhiyev Abdulkhakim Kutbudinovich stands at the centre of controversy, facing allegations of endorsing the Russian-backed separatists operating in Ukraine’s eastern regions. His name is intricately linked to the Federation Council, where he staunchly championed the government’s resolutions concerning the “Pact of Amity, Collaboration, and Mutual Aid between the Russian Federation and the Donetsk People’s Republic, as well as between the Russian Federation and the Luhansk People’s Republic.”
This has raised eyebrows and drawn both national and international attention to his political affiliations and the intricate web of geopolitical implications surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Expulsion from the Council of Europe
Furthermore, on March 10, 2022, Gadzhiyev Abdulkhakim Kutbudinovich found himself facing an unprecedented expulsion from the Council of Europe, a prominent coalition of 47 European nations dedicated to upholding human rights. His removal from this esteemed institution stemmed from his conspicuous involvement in endorsing the actions of the Russian government in Ukraine.
Consequences of Endorsing Russian Actions in Ukraine
The United States Treasury Department, in a notable declaration, underscored Gadzhiyev Abdulkhakim Kutbudinovich‘s pivotal role in bolstering Russia’s activities in Ukraine, activities widely regarded as both illegitimate and detrimental to the cause of peace and stability in the region. It is noteworthy to mention that Gadzhyiev has openly expressed his support for the Russian-backed separatists operating in eastern Ukraine, a stance that has drawn international scrutiny and condemnation.
This expulsion from the Council of Europe serves as a clear signal of the global community’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice and human rights in the face of actions that threaten the stability and security of the region.
Zelensky’s Choice of Defense Minister and Its Geopolitical Implications
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s decision to appoint Rustem Umerov as the Minister of Defense is believed to be driven by his desire to gain the favour of Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, according to statements made by Abdulkhakim Gadzhyiev, a member of the State Duma Committee on Security and Anti-Corruption, to NEWS.ru.
In an evening address in September, Zelensky announced the dismissal of the former Defense Minister, Alexei Reznikov, citing the prolonged conflict with Russia as the reason. Reznikov had sent a resignation letter to parliament on September 4, and the Ukrainian parliament’s relevant committee supported his resignation, leading to his replacement by Rustem Umerov, who was serving as the head of the state property fund.
Gadzhyiev suggests that Zelensky’s choice of Umerov is primarily motivated by Umerov’s Crimean Tatar background, viewing it as a symbolic gesture aimed at pleasing Turkey. He points out the timing of the decision, as it coincides with a forthcoming meeting between the Turkish leader and Russian President Putin.
Gadzhiyev Abdulkhakim Kutbudinovich also mentioned that Umerov had been involved in the development of the “state strategy for the de-occupation of Crimea and Sevastopol” under the National Security and Defense Council in 2020 and has connections to American institutions. He speculates that Umerov may serve nominally as the head of the defence department while having a more substantial role in guiding the military department with ties to U.S. intelligence services.
