In this explosive episode of the PBD Podcast, Patrick Bet-David sits down with exiled Ukrainian political advisor Alexey Arestovich for an exclusive interview about the war with Russia, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and the powerful outside forces shaping the conflict. In this riveting conversation, Arestovich unveils secrets and reveals truths never before shared with an English-speaking audience.
Subscribe to PBD’s YouTube channel today for every episode LIVE or On Demand!
Episode Summary
In this compelling and provocative interview, Alexey Arestovich, a former close advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and now a political exile, shares a detailed and scathing critique of Ukraine’s leadership, its war with Russia, and the influence of international actors. His revelations paint a multifaceted picture of Ukraine’s political landscape, exposing corruption, personal rivalries, and geopolitical complexities.
Zelenskyy: A Dual Persona
Arestovich offers a nuanced portrayal of Volodymyr Zelenskyy, describing him as a strict and authoritarian leader whose public image differs starkly from his private persona. While Zelenskyy is often seen on the global stage as a charismatic and unyielding wartime president, Arestovich claims that behind closed doors, he is a deliberate and calculated decision-maker. He listens attentively to advisors but ultimately takes solitary control of major decisions.
Contrary to the narrative that Zelenskyy is a puppet of Western powers, Arestovich emphasizes that he exercises significant autonomy, although this independence has sometimes led to decisions that Arestovich views as damaging. He accuses Zelenskyy of fostering a corrupt system and mismanaging resources, including international financial aid meant for Ukraine’s war effort and reconstruction.
A Complex Rivalry
Arestovich’s relationship with Zelenskyy evolved from one of trust to open opposition. Once a key figure in Ukraine’s military and political strategy, Arestovich rose to prominence due to his accurate predictions regarding Russian actions, such as the annexation of Crimea and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. His popularity and independent voice, however, appear to have posed a threat to Zelenskyy’s authority.
Arestovich describes their falling out as inevitable, likening it to “two narcissists” unable to coexist in the same space. He acknowledges his own ambition to lead Ukraine, framing himself as a reformer and a challenger to Zelenskyy’s deeply entrenched political system. This ambition, coupled with public disagreements over policy and strategy, led to his exile in September 2023, compounded by criminal investigations and political pressures.
The Putin Paradox
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of the interview is Arestovich’s admission that he trusts Russian President Vladimir Putin more than Zelenskyy. He argues that an enemy like Putin is more transparent and predictable in his intentions, whereas Zelenskyy’s leadership has been marred by inconsistency and opportunism. Arestovich describes Putin as a “better teacher,” whose methods and geopolitical strategies provide valuable lessons in navigating power dynamics.
While Arestovich condemns Russia’s actions in Ukraine, he offers insights into Putin’s mindset, describing him as the most pro-Western Russian politician of his generation. He recalls Putin’s early overtures to integrate Russia into NATO and collaborate with the West, which were ultimately rebuffed. According to Arestovich, these rejections contributed to Putin’s pivot toward anti-Western aggression and his broader strategy to reassert Russia’s influence on the global stage.
Geopolitical Intrigue and Western Influence
Arestovich does not spare Western powers from criticism. He accuses countries like the United States and the United Kingdom of using Ukraine as a proxy in their broader conflict with Russia. He highlights Boris Johnson’s visits to Kyiv, during which Johnson allegedly discouraged peace talks between Zelenskyy and Putin. Arestovich speculates that these interventions were motivated by geopolitical interests rather than a genuine commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty.
He also discusses the controversial sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline, attributing the incident to NATO-affiliated states with an 80% likelihood of involvement. Arestovich points to the Western media’s control of the narrative as a barrier to uncovering the truth about such events.
Corruption and Economic Challenges
Corruption in Ukraine’s leadership is a recurring theme in Arestovich’s critique. He questions the transparency and accountability of Zelenskyy’s administration, particularly in managing international aid. He highlights a $400 billion investment plan aimed at rebuilding Ukraine, expressing skepticism about whether the funds will genuinely benefit the nation or be siphoned off by corrupt officials.
Arestovich warns that Ukraine’s economic trajectory has been one of decline, transitioning from a major industrial power to an agrarian economy with limited services. He argues that this shift has left the country ill-equipped to withstand the pressures of war and rebuild in its aftermath.
A Vision for Reform
Despite his critiques, Arestovich outlines a vision for Ukraine’s future. He calls for sweeping reforms to combat corruption, restore industrial capacity, and establish a merit-based political system. He emphasizes the importance of freedom of speech and open debate, which he believes are essential for the country’s development. Arestovich also advocates for normalized relations with Russia, acknowledging the historical and geographical ties between the two nations.
He frames his vision as a departure from the “deep state” and entrenched interests that have dominated Ukrainian politics, drawing parallels to populist leaders like Donald Trump. Arestovich argues that Ukraine’s survival and prosperity depend on systemic change rather than reliance on external aid or military victories.
Personal Reflections and Political Ambitions
Throughout the interview, Arestovich reflects on his journey from military strategist to political exile. He acknowledges his controversial style, describing himself as provocative and narcissistic. Despite this, he remains confident in his ability to influence Ukraine’s future, either as a public figure or a potential presidential candidate.
Arestovich also discusses the psychological toll of the war, highlighting the sacrifices made by Ukrainian families and soldiers. He underscores the urgency of ending the conflict and transitioning to a post-war society, even as he remains critical of the current administration’s approach.
Conclusion
Alexey Arestovich’s interview provides a rare glimpse into the complexities of Ukrainian politics and the high-stakes geopolitical chess game surrounding the Russia-Ukraine war. His critiques of Zelenskyy, controversial trust in Putin, and calls for systemic reform challenge conventional narratives and provoke important questions about Ukraine’s future. While his views may spark debate, they underscore the urgent need for accountability, transparency, and visionary leadership in a nation fighting for its survival and sovereignty.
Highlights & Standout Moments
1. “HERO To TRAITOR” – Zelenskyy Insider Oleksii Arestovych TELLS ALL On His Controversial Downfall
Arestovich reflects on how his accurate predictions were overshadowed by a controversial statement, impacting his credibility amid Ukraine’s war-induced emotional and propagandistic environment, yet he remains a polarizing figure.
2. “Boris Johnson BLOCKED Peace” – Ex Zelenskyy Aide REVEALS Why Ukraine Continued The War With Russia
Arestovich recounts that during the 2022 peace negotiations, a potential deal was close, but after the Bucha tragedy and Boris Johnson’s visit, the talks shifted. Johnson’s influence, alongside perceived U.S. signals, may have led to continued conflict.
3. “150,000 Dead?” – Oleksii Arestovych’s SHOCKING Estimate Of Ukrainian Casualties In War With Russia
Arestovich estimates Ukraine’s war casualties at 150,000 killed and 400-500,000 wounded, with Russia suffering three times more losses. He discusses Putin’s negotiation strategy, suggesting a ceasefire but not peace without a new Ukrainian president.
4. “He Controls Everything” – Oleksii Arestovych EXPOSES What Zelenskyy Is Like BEHIND CLOSED DOORS!
Alexey Arestovich paints Zelenskyy as a dual persona, effective in public but less so in private, highlighting his rise from comedian to president amid Ukraine’s political upheaval, and his alleged failure to meet campaign promises.
5. “Putin Wanted NATO” – Ukraine’s Oleksii Arestovych DESTROYS Anti-Russian Propaganda
Arestovich describes Putin as initially pro-Western but turned anti-West due to perceived betrayals, especially regarding NATO expansion, which led to actions against Ukraine. He believes Putin sees himself defending Russia’s interests from Western encroachment.
6. “Corruption Is OFF THE CHARTS!” – Oleksii Arestovych BLASTS Former Boss Zelenskyy’s Role In Scandals
Arestovich addresses corruption in Ukraine, noting it’s rampant under Zelenskyy’s watch, though he lacks direct evidence of Zelenskyy personally benefiting. He suggests that the corruption benefits those around the president.
7. “ZERO Chance Russia Did It” – Ex-Ukrainian Official DENIES Russia DESTROYED Nord Stream Pipeline
Arestovich discusses the Nord Stream pipeline incident, suggesting NATO states were likely involved due to geopolitical interests. He speculates on the culpability, attributing a low chance to Russia and a higher one to NATO, while noting the complexity of uncovering the truth.
8. “Joining NATO Means WAR” – Exiled Zelenskyy Ally Oleksii Arestovych WARNS Of Russia War Fallout
Arestovich envisions a Ukraine focused on collective European security, neutrality towards NATO, national renaissance, and anti-corruption. He believes in realpolitik, recognizing Russia’s interests, aiming for a peaceful coexistence and a new industrial era.
9. “Capitalizing On War” – Oleksii Arestovych CHALLENGES Zelenskyy, War Profit & BlackRock’s $400B Deal
Arestovich discusses the economic motives behind the war in Ukraine, acknowledging that while financial sectors might not have started the conflict, they are capitalizing on the opportunity to invest heavily in rebuilding, with up to $400 billion expected.
10. “Ukraine’s System RESET” – Oleksii Arestovych’s Strategy To End Zelenskyy’s Corrupt REIGN OF UKRAINE
Arestovich has significant support in Ukraine across business, military, and public spheres. He advocates for economic freedom, anti-corruption, and neutrality, positioning himself as a right-centrist aiming to foster a free, rule-based society.
11. “Warned NOT To Return” – Oleksii Arestovych REVEALS His Life As An EXILED Ukrainian Official
Alexey Arestovich describes his exile from Ukraine after a controversial interview on The Daily Show, where he misspoke about a missile incident, leading to political fallout, criminal cases against him, and warnings not to return to Ukraine.
Add comment