Ukrainian Embassy denies Zelensky casino purchase

The Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Cyprus has firmly denied allegations that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has purchased a casino in Kyrenia. In a recent statement, the embassy described these reports as "another lie" designed to discredit Ukraine and its leadership, as well as to create diplomatic tensions between Kyiv and Nicosia.

The rumors, which have been circulating in the media, suggest that President Zelensky is the new owner of the Vuni Palace Casino and Hotel, one of the largest casinos in Europe, located in Kyrenia, Cyprus. The embassy categorically refuted these claims, stating that "Russian propaganda is spreading a false story" and emphasized that there is no evidence to support these allegations.

"This false information is yet another lie aimed at discrediting Ukraine and its leadership in the eyes of the world community," the embassy asserted. The statement clarified that the story claims a company supposedly owned by Zelensky acquired the Vuni Palace Hotel and Casino, but the publication did not provide any proof to back this claim.

Furthermore, the embassy highlighted that the dissemination of this false information is intended to strain diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Cyprus. They urged readers and media professionals to rely on trustworthy sources and remain vigilant against "manipulation and Russian propaganda."

In related news, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides commented on the situation, stating that no evidence has emerged to support the claims about Zelensky's involvement in the casino purchase.

The controversial report originated from the opposition website OdaTV, which published an article titled "Zelensky plays a game of checkers." The article alleges that while Western nations are supplying Ukraine with financial and military aid, Zelensky has diverted his attention to the casino industry. The website claims that a company named "Film Heritage Inc.," registered in Belize and supposedly owned by Zelensky according to Pandora Papers from 2021, acquired the Vuni Palace Casino Hotel in early May 2024.

OdaTV did not specify the purchase price but noted that the asking price for the Vuni Palace is 150 million British pounds. The casino, built in 2006, has reportedly stopped accepting reservations as of May 27, according to Booking.com.

Despite these allegations, the Ukrainian embassy continues to stand by its assertion that the reports are false and part of a broader attempt to undermine Ukraine’s international standing.