PBD Podcast Episode Summary: "I Trust Putin More Than Zelenskyy" - Exiled Zelenskyy Top Insider Oleksii Arestovych TELLS ALL | Ep. 524

Release Date: December 23, 2024

In this compelling episode of the PBD Podcast, host Patrick Bet-David engages in a profound and revealing conversation with Oleksii Arestovych, a former top advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Arestovych, now in exile, provides an insider’s perspective on the political and military dynamics within Ukraine, his tumultuous relationship with Zelenskyy, and his unorthodox stance favoring Russian President Vladimir Putin over his Ukrainian counterpart.

1. Introduction to Oleksii Arestovych

The episode delves into Oleksii Arestovych’s extensive background in military intelligence and his pivotal role during Ukraine’s second Maidan and subsequent military operations in the east. Arestovych recounts his transition from a military intelligence officer to a prominent military commentator and eventually an advisor in Zelenskyy’s administration.

“In 1998, I finished the same military school as General Zaluzhny. We’ve been friends since then.”
[06:49] - Oleksii Arestovych

2. Relationship and Falling Out with Zelenskyy

Arestovych discusses his initial collaboration with Zelenskyy, highlighting their shared missions during the Minsk and Normandy processes. However, tensions arose as Arestovych openly criticized Zelenskyy’s handling of the war and his approach to negotiations, particularly concerning the Russian Patriarchy and church issues.

“I was always a black sheep. More likely it was just their method to draw near the people who are criticizing them in order to disarm them.”
[09:18] - Oleksii Arestovych

The narrative unfolds to describe a systematic campaign initiated against Arestovych following his presidential aspirations and a controversial broadcast regarding missile interceptions in Dnipro, which led to criminal prosecutions and his eventual exile.

3. Views on Vladimir Putin and Russian Motivations

Arestovych provides a nuanced analysis of Vladimir Putin, challenging the prevalent negative perceptions. He attributes Russia’s aggressive policies to a complex interplay of historical grievances, perceived Western betrayals, and strategic geopolitical interests.

“Putin single-handedly took several decisions directly directed against my country, including the annexation of Crimea and the full-scale war that began in 2022.”
[29:29] - Oleksii Arestovych

He elaborates on Putin’s transformation from a pro-Western politician to an antagonist, driven by events like NATO’s eastward expansion and internal political upheavals.

4. Corruption in Ukraine and Zelenskyy’s Role

Addressing the rampant corruption within Ukraine, Arestovych emphasizes its detrimental impact on the nation’s stability and his critical view of Zelenskyy’s administration.

“The level of corruption is off the charts. Zelenskyy is an extremely authoritarian and strict person.”
[01:02] - Oleksii Arestovych

He acknowledges his inability to personally verify corruption involving Zelenskyy but underscores the systemic issues that plague Ukraine’s defense and agricultural sectors.

5. NATO and Ukraine’s Future

Arestovych advocates for Ukraine’s neutrality, arguing that NATO membership was a catalyst for the ongoing conflict with Russia. He contends that maintaining a neutral stance could pave the way for a stable and secure Europe.

“Ukraine needs to remain a neutral country because one of the main reasons for this war with Russia was our aspiration to join NATO.”
[93:35] - Oleksii Arestovych

This position stands in stark contrast to the prevailing Western support for Ukraine’s integration into Western defense structures.

6. Speculations on Nord Stream Pipeline Sabotage

The discussion touches upon the mysterious sabotage of the Nord Stream pipelines, where Arestovych entertains various theories but admits a lack of concrete evidence linking any specific party, including Ukraine or Russia, to the incident.

“I think that this event could not be outside of Britain’s interest. Even if Great Britain did not inspire it or conspired.”
[83:38] - Oleksii Arestovych

He remains skeptical about attributing the sabotage to any individual nation without definitive proof.

7. Political Aspirations and Vision for Ukraine

As an aspiring presidential candidate, Arestovych outlines his vision for Ukraine’s renaissance, focusing on industrial revitalization, combating corruption, and fostering a truly free and economically liberal society.

“My goal is to create a system of rules and to create mechanisms in the country that will hold for the future. Free economy and freedom and protection.”
[100:32] - Oleksii Arestovych

He emphasizes the need for establishing a collective security system in Europe that includes Russia and Belarus to prevent future conflicts.

8. Handling Propaganda and Opposition

Anticipating intense opposition and propaganda campaigns, Arestovych advocates for unwavering transparency and honest communication with the Ukrainian populace to counteract misinformation and preserve his integrity.

“I will be maximum honest and precise, and the Ukrainian nation will decide.”
[98:25] - Oleksii Arestovych

9. Conclusion and Future Prospects

In closing, Arestovych remains optimistic about his potential presidential victory, asserting his capability to lead Ukraine towards a peaceful and prosperous future. The episode concludes with reflections on the complexities of international relations and the enduring impact of internal political strife.

Notable Quotes

• “Zelensky is a person who, when life threw challenges at him, they were beyond his competency.”
  [25:02] - Oleksii Arestovych

• “Putin is my opponent and it’s an honest battle. But internal politics are always dirty and usually your best friends are the ones who betray you.”
  [51:03] - Oleksii Arestovych

• “Ukraine needs to remain a neutral country because one of the main reasons for this war with Russia was our aspiration to join NATO.”
  [93:35] - Oleksii Arestovych

• “I think we will win. I will win.”
  [95:11] - Oleksii Arestovych

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a rare and unfiltered glimpse into the mind of a prominent Ukrainian insider who challenges the conventional narrative surrounding Ukraine’s leadership and its conflict with Russia. Arestovych’s candid revelations and strategic insights provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the geopolitical intricacies at play and the internal challenges Ukraine faces in its quest for stability and international recognition.

For those interested in international politics, Ukrainian affairs, and strategic military insights, this episode is a must-listen, presenting perspectives that diverge significantly from mainstream discourse.