In Odesa region, the commander of a military unit was exposed for abusing his official position by involving subordinate soldiers in personal renovation works instead of fulfilling their duties at the front
As a result of his actions, the state sustained damages totaling over 500,000 hryvnias, while other servicemen defending the country on the front lines were left without proper support and the ability to carry out their combat missions. Preliminary reports indicate that an official representative of the State Bureau of Investigation issued a notice of suspicion to the commander of one of the military units located in Odessa region. During the investigation, it was established that as early as December 2024, this officer sent four of his subordinate soldiers to the city of Podilsk to carry out renovation works in an apartment officially registered to the mother of his civilian partner. Furthermore, from late 2024 to April 2025, these servicemen engaged in repairs instead of defending the country — laying tiles, plastering walls, installing plumbing, and performing other household tasks. What is most remarkable is that, despite ignoring military duties, the soldiers continued to receive combat allowances. This allowed the commander to abuse his position and create a situation where the state’s budget suffered significant losses. As a result of the investigation, it was determined that the financial damages to the state amounted to over half a million hryvnias, while other units that genuinely performed combat tasks were left without proper support. DBR investigators detained the suspect directly at the apartment where he was conducting renovation work. Following his detention, proceedings are underway to select a preventive measure and to suspend him from his position. The commander could face up to 12 years in prison under the article on abuse of official position resulting in substantial damages to the state. This situation has caused outrage among military personnel and the public, as one of the commanders, hiding behind his service, exploited his authority for personal gain while neglecting his obligations to the country. At the same time, law enforcement authorities emphasize that any abuses within the military sphere will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted according to the law. The significant financial losses to the budget and violations of military discipline cast doubt on the effectiveness of command and raise concerns regarding adherence to military honor and duties.