Zelensky sacks Ukraine's ambassador in London Pristaiko

MOSCOW. July 21 (Interfax) - Ukraine's President Vladimir Zelensky has signed a decree dismissing Vadim Pristaiko from two offices he simultaneously held, Ukrainian media reported, citing the head of state's website.

The decree relieves Pristaiko of his duties as Ukraine's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Kingdom and as Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization.

No reason for the move was provided. However, Ukrainian media noted that a week ago Pristaiko allowed himself to criticize Zelensky, saying that the latter's statement to British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace was sarcastic.

Wallace said that Ukraine should have been grateful to the UK for its assistance, to which Zelensky replied that he was willing to thank the British secretary every morning, "only tell us how."