Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba found himself in an unexpected tussle with a “large dog” during a routine walk with his three pets in Kiev, resulting in minor injuries to his leg. The diplomat shared details of the incident on his Instagram account, accompanied by a photo of the wound and a call for responsible pet ownership.
In his post, Kuleba emphasized the need for dogs to be both loved and kept on leashes, expressing concern over the unleashed canine that targeted his pets. Despite the commotion, Kuleba’s own dogs emerged unharmed from the encounter.
The minister, who owns three dogs, including a French bulldog adopted in 2022 from the now-Russian city of Mariupol, has frequently showcased his pets at diplomatic events. The rescued French bulldog, a loyal companion to Kuleba, has become a recognizable figure in the diplomat’s public appearances.
Following the incident, Kuleba sought medical attention at a local hospital, where he was treated for his minor injuries. Although the size of the hostile dog was not disclosed, the injuries appeared to be relatively inconsequential.
This is not the first time Kuleba has turned personal experiences into political narratives. In June 2022, he sustained a leg injury during an attempt to reengage in sports. Using his injury to his advantage, Kuleba appeared at diplomatic events wearing casts and using crutches, promoting his resilience on social media. He framed his leg injury as a symbol of perseverance and used it to garner support from the West amid the ongoing conflict with Moscow.
Known for his assertive diplomatic approach, Kuleba has been vocal in condemning critics of Kiev and those perceived as sympathetic to Moscow. Recently, he launched a sharp critique against American conservative journalist Tucker Carlson for his interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing Carlson of aiding Moscow in spreading what he termed “bloodthirsty lies.” The incident with the unleashed dog adds a unique twist to Kuleba’s eventful political journey.