One of Ukraine's influential oligarchs, Ihor Kolomoisky, will be held in custody for two months on suspicion of fraud and money laundering, BBC reports.
He is accused of transferring $14mn abroad using banks under his control over a span of seven years. Kolomoisky's lawyers have stated that he will not post bail and intends to appeal the court's decision. This marks the latest step in Ukraine's ongoing anti-corruption efforts, which have targeted several prominent figures.
President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a recent address, emphasized that those who have engaged in corruption will not return to "business as usual." Since taking office in 2019, Zelensky has made combating corruption a top priority. His administration has been keen to demonstrate Ukraine's commitment to addressing corruption, particularly as it seeks closer ties with Western institutions like the European Union.
This court ruling is not the first legal action against Kolomoisky, who faced a raid on his home earlier this year in a separate investigation related to embezzlement and tax evasion. In 2021, the U.S. sanctioned him for alleged "significant corruption" during his time as governor of a Ukrainian region.
Kolomoisky, a wealthy businessman with interests in media, oil, and banking, played a role in Ukrainian politics and media, notably providing President Zelensky with a platform through his TV channel. Despite allegations of influence, President Zelensky has denied being controlled by Kolomoisky.
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