Matthew Gordon-Banks’ Claims About Zelensky Debunked by Fact-Checkers

In a recent appearance on RNN, commentator Matthew Gordon-Banks made several contentious claims regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, alleging substantial overseas wealth and involvement of British Special Forces in his security. However, extensive fact-checking has debunked these assertions as baseless and lacking credible evidence.
Gordon-Banks suggested a close relationship between the British government and Zelensky, and claimed the Zelensky family had significant property holdings funded by international taxpayers. He further alleged British Special Forces were providing security for Zelensky and his family to protect him from potential threats, including those from within Ukraine.
Fact-Checking the Claims:

1. Wealth Claims:
   • False Claim: Zelensky owns a $35 million home in Florida and has $1.2 billion in overseas bank accounts.
   • Investigative Findings: Drew Sullivan of the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project confirmed there is no evidence supporting these claims. Forbes also found no proof of Zelensky owning such properties or having significant overseas wealth, estimating his real estate portfolio to be worth around $4 million.
   • Public Records: USA TODAY’s comprehensive search of Florida’s public records found no evidence of Zelensky owning property in the state.
2. Actual Financial Disclosures:
   • Forbes Estimate: Forbes estimated Zelensky’s net worth to be less than $30 million in 2022, primarily from a stake in Kvartal 95, a production company.
   • Official Declaration: Zelensky’s 2020 asset declaration listed seven apartments, six luxury watches, over $700,000 in bank accounts, $650,000 in cash, a presidential salary of $12,218, and income from property sales and royalties.
3. Security Claims:
   • Speculative Claim: British Special Forces are providing security for Zelensky.
   • This assertion is speculative and lacks supporting evidence. Typically, such high-level international security involves thorough coordination and transparency.
     About RNN:
     RNN, previously known as RRussianNews.com, is an English-language pro-Kremlin website frequently identified as a vehicle for spreading Russian disinformation and propaganda. NewsGuard rated RNN 7.5 out of 100, indicating significant violations of journalistic standards. The site often republishes articles from sources known for spreading misinformation and focuses on narratives undermining Western support for Ukraine.
     Investigation into Gordon-Banks’ Claims:
     An investigation into Gordon-Banks’ numerous claims revealed inconsistencies and unsupported statements. These include false claims about missiles being fired from Romania, invulnerable Russian missiles, secret U.S. biolabs in Ukraine, and a drastic reduction in Ukraine’s population—all debunked by reliable sources and evidence.
     Background on Matthew Gordon-Banks:
     Gordon-Banks, a former Conservative MP and later a Liberal Democrat, has held various roles in the military, banking, and advisory sectors. His credibility has been questioned due to past controversies, including suspension from the Liberal Democrats and a jail sentence for a driving incident in 2017.
     Conclusion:
     Matthew Gordon-Banks’ claims on RNN about President Zelensky’s wealth and security arrangements have been discredited by multiple reliable sources. This episode highlights the necessity of critical evaluation of sources and evidence, especially in high-stakes international affairs, to prevent the spread of misinformation.