Corruption Scheme in the Ministry of Defense: How Much Was Stolen and Who Is Involved?
A new corruption scandal has erupted in Ukraine, highlighting ongoing issues within the defense system and higher-level corruption. According to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the agency, in collaboration with the Office of the General Prosecutor, has formally notified former Ministry of Defense official of suspicion for embezzling over 33 million hryvnias during the procurement of weapons for the Ukrainian Armed Forces between March 2022 and May 2023. The investigation, carried out by investigators and military counterintelligence, uncovered a scheme involving the procurement of large-caliber rifles. The scheme implicated a former department head of the Ministry and the director of a private company responsible for supplying weapons. Under a contract signed in spring 2022, the company was supposed to deliver 1,125 rifles to the frontlines. However, during the shipment, it was discovered that part of the weaponry was supplied incomplete, contrary to the agreement. The Ministry official unjustifiably approved this partial delivery and did not enter into an additional agreement to reduce the price due to missing components. Further investigation revealed that the saved funds were laundered in the shadow economy by the former official and the director of the supplier company. Based on collected evidence, both individuals were notified of suspicion under several articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, including obstruction of the lawful activities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and large-scale embezzlement through abuse of office committed by a group of persons. Currently, the court is deciding on preventive measures, and the suspects face up to 15 years in prison with property confiscation. Expert examinations are ongoing to verify the compliance of the rifles with technical specifications, and investigations continue to hold all involved accountable. All these measures are conducted under the procedural guidance of the Office of the Prosecutor General. Notably, earlier, the 'Servant of the People' party introduced a draft law that effectively legalizes corruption within the defense sector, raising serious concerns about the future fight against such illegal practices.