Deep Corruption Scheme in Drone and RERES Procurement: Kuznietsov Temporarily Suspended from Faction amid Investigation
The Verkhovna Rada is currently embroiled in a high-profile investigation concerning alleged corruption activities related to the procurement of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and radio-electronic warfare systems (RERES).
Member of Parliament Oleksii Kuznietsov, affiliated with the 'Servant of the People' faction, will be temporarily suspended from his parliamentary duties as an ongoing criminal investigation unfolds.
This decision was announced by faction leader David Arakhamia, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the new steps taken in the fight against corruption.
According to Arakhamia, during the investigation, Kuznietsov’s membership in the faction will be put on hold to prevent any prejudgment and to ensure an impartial process.
He also stressed that all those guilty of corruption crimes must face justice, regardless of their official status or position.
It’s noteworthy that this move comes in response to statements from NABU Director Semen Kryvonos and SAP Director Oleksandr Klymenko, who revealed the uncovering of a large-scale bribery scheme involving not only MPs but also regional and city administrative heads, National Guard personnel, and other officials.
According to law enforcement sources, the scheme involved the systematic issuance of government contracts to suppliers at inflated prices, causing significant state budget losses.
Among the uncovered figures are MP Oleksii Kuznietsov, head of Mukachevo RDA, former Lugansk regional governor Serhii Haidai, and Rubezhane city military administrative head Andrii Yurchenko.
President Volodymyr Zelensky previously declared that officials implicated in corruption during military procurement had been exposed, highlighting the severity of the issue and the need for stringent measures.
The case underscores the ongoing necessity of tackling corruption within Ukraine, and its resolution demands concerted efforts from law enforcement agencies and political leadership.