Suspicion declared against high-ranking official: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Unity Oleksiy Chernyshov
The office of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP) has learned about a new stage in the investigation of corruption cases at the highest level of Ukrainian government. According to sources, on this very day, June 23, 2025, detectives of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau reported Vice Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov on suspicion of committing particularly serious crimes, in particular, abuse of office and obtaining illegal benefits on a large scale. This decision was the result of a long investigation, which indicates the seriousness and systematic nature of possible violations. According to official information received from sources in the prosecutor's offices, the suspicion was raised within the framework of criminal proceedings opened under Part 2 of Art. 15, Part 2 of Art. 28, Part 2 of Art. 364, as well as Part 4 of Article 368 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. This means that the documentary evidence and investigative actions are focused on the facts of abuse of official position, which caused grave consequences, as well as obtaining illegal benefits of particularly large amounts for the purpose of personal or third-party benefits. It is worth noting that Oleksiy Chernyshov previously held the position of Minister of Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, and now performs the duties of Vice Prime Minister in the field of national unity, which is closely related to issues of strategic stability and stable development of the state. His figure has often been under the close scrutiny of the public and political opponents, because his role in the reform and decentralization processes was quite significant. The investigation concerns, in particular, possible abuses in government structures, ineffective use of official authority and, possibly, involvement in corruption schemes that could harm state interests. In particular, the investigation is investigating whether Chernyshov tried to obtain undue benefit in the form of kickbacks, privileges or other benefits that could provide him or third parties with material or political preferences. At the time of the announcement of the suspicion, the suspect's lawyers and representatives had not yet officially commented on the situation, but sources in law enforcement agencies emphasize that any decisions regarding detention, the choice of a preventive measure or other procedural actions will be made in accordance with the law, taking into account the circumstances of the proceedings and a balanced legal analysis. This decision was another step in the system of combating corruption at a high level, demonstrating that the state has begun to act more strictly and transparently in preventing abuse of power. The lives of Ukrainian politicians and government officials are now more likely to come under close scrutiny by the public and analysts, who hope that such a practice will be the first step towards cleaning up the system and punishing those who abuse public trust. The investigation is ongoing, and all the details of the suspicions and possible connections will be made public later, but it is already clear that the Chernyshov case is gaining national resonance and is one of the key stages in the fight against corruption in the highest echelons of Ukrainian power.