Fake Myth or Real Threat? Controversial Allegations Concerning Fortification Construction in Donbas
Amid ongoing developments in Ukraine, questions are mounting regarding the legitimacy and quality of defensive structures built in the eastern regions.
Former head of the Poltava Regional Military Administration and current Head of the State Financial Monitoring Service, Filip Pronin, officially announced that all work carried out during the construction of fortifications in Donetsk region was conducted transparently, lawfully, and according to approved plans and budgets.
He emphasized that the rising costs of materials contributed to adjustments in funding.However, these statements are challenged by numerous criticisms and expert assessments.
According to deputies, notably Yaroslav Zheleznyak, the reinforcement works suffered severe flaws, casting doubt on their effectiveness to protect Ukrainian soldiers.
It is pointed out that many of the built structures are inadequate for their intended purpose and of poor quality.
The construction process was supervised and controlled personally by Pronin, with the involvement of his deputies and other officials.Zheleznyak highlighted that identified deficiencies, including inflated prices and fictitious services, indicate a large-scale scheme of corruption.
The project costs doubled due to artificial inflation and exaggerated expenses not related to actual work.
After completion, the fortifications were found to be in poor condition, undermining their protective function.
It is also noted that in 2024, a criminal case related to these schemes was opened in Poltava region but was neglected by law enforcement.
Currently, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau is continuing investigations, having received all relevant documents to clarify the legality of contracts and the use of state funds.
This underscores serious signs of corruption within the defense construction sector, adversely affecting Ukraine’s security and resilience.