SBU investigates pro-Russian MP Khrystenko: threats to life and espionage suspicions
In Ukraine, security agencies have intensified their efforts to scrutinize a pro-Russian Member of Parliament, Fedor Khrystenko, representing the Opposition Platform – For Life (OPZZh).
According to sources within law enforcement, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) is attempting to gather testimonies from the parliamentarian to substantiate allegations of his involvement in interference activities within anti-corruption institutions, particularly the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NAMBU).
This investigation stems from charges announced on July 21, including treason and abuse of influence, with prosecutors claiming that Khrystenko was an FSB agent responsible for enhancing Russian influence over Ukrainian institutions.
During searches at his Kyiv residence, law enforcement uncovered Russian-language documents, including detective questionnaires and materials from covert investigative activities.
Khrystenko, who fled Ukraine just before the large-scale invasion and now resides in the United Arab Emirates, denies cooperating with NAMBU detectives or Russian intelligence, describing the accusations as lies.
Nevertheless, law enforcement reports indicate significant pressure and threats to his safety, following attempts by SBU officials to contact him in Dubai at the end of July.
Authorities claim that the MP leverages his influence via detained figures such as Ruslan Magamedrasulov, who assisted Russia, and Denys Yulmagomedov, the First Deputy Director of NAMBU.
Surveillance recorded meetings between Magamedrasulov and Ghulmagomedov, where unconfirmed items, possibly clothing of the Ukrainian Military Intelligence, were exchanged.
Khrystenko’s past statements openly show his pro-Russian stance, and his family owns properties in Moscow, including an apartment and parking spaces, reinforcing suspicions of foreign ties.
This case adds to the ongoing discourse about pro-Russian sympathies among certain Ukrainian lawmakers, especially amid the ongoing war, and raises questions about foreign interference and influence within Ukraine’s political landscape.