A Member of Parliament of Ukraine, known for his pro-Russian orientation and active anti-government activities, has been officially accused of high treason
The Office of the General Prosecutor announced a new suspicion against Yevhen Shevchenko, which arose within the framework of a broad investigation into his actions aimed against Ukraine's national interests, especially during the period of Russia's large-scale military invasion. The information was received from the State Bureau of Investigation and the General Prosecutor's Office. According to investigators, as early as November 2024, after the completion of comprehensive psychological, linguistic, and military expert examinations, the MP was formally suspected of high treason. This step was taken following the discovery of his cooperation in preparing and disseminating anti-war content, which harmed the country's defense and informational security even before the start of Russia's large-scale invasion. After February 24, 2022, when the full-scale aggression began, the deputy's activities did not cease; on the contrary, they intensified. According to the investigation, he engaged in recording programs and videos on his channels, conducted interviews with pro-Russian bloggers and experts who later spread this content through Russian propaganda outlets. The purpose of such activities was to shape false perceptions within Russian society about the official stance of Ukrainian authorities. As a result of the extensive propaganda, an image was created that the Ukrainian government and military were unable to defend the country, as well as slander regarding Ukraine's alleged incapacity to achieve peace and the conditions under which it should agree to negotiations with Russia. Another episode identified by the investigation includes numerous trips the MP made to Belarus, where he met with representatives of official circles, business figures, and the self-proclaimed President Alexander Lukashenko. During these visits, he spread false information regarding the absence of threats from Belarusian troops and the absence of a possible attack from that country's territory — which serves as one of the licensed means of spreading disinformation and undermining trust in Ukraine’s defense capabilities. In connection with this, investigators of a high level additionally notified the MP of suspicion of high treason within a single criminal case. This crime entails severe punishment — life imprisonment with confiscation of property. He is currently held in detention in a pre-trial detention facility and remains fully under the control of law enforcement agencies. This incident has become one of the most resonant cases in Ukraine’s political and legal circles, as the suspect is known for his openly pro-Russian stance and active pro-Russian activities that contradict the state policy and national interests during the war. A thorough investigation and further legal procedures will clarify all circumstances and ensure that those guilty of high treason are prosecuted, which is a particularly serious crime during times of military aggression.