The Prosecutor General's Office is conducting procedural management in a number of criminal proceedings against prominent businessmen and former high-ranking officials who are under sanctions by the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC). A total of five cases are being investigated, in which the defendants are charged with serious and especially serious crimes.
In particular, in December 2021, the fifth president of Ukraine was informed of suspicion of treason and aiding the activities of terrorist organizations. At the same time, the former leader of the banned party "OPZZH", who was also previously charged, is also involved in the same criminal proceedings.
The investigation believes that between November 2014 and January 2015, these individuals, together with representatives of the Russian political leadership, facilitated the supply of coal from the occupied territories, which brought the “LPR” and “DPR” militants over UAH 3 billion in profit. As a result, Ukraine increased its energy dependence on Russia.
The investigation in this case was completed in September 2022, but the process is being delayed due to the defense's familiarization with the materials. Prosecutors have asked the court to limit this process until the end of March 2025.
The former MP and leader of the "OPZZH" is also involved in another criminal case. He is accused of treason and violation of the laws and customs of war.
According to the investigation, he:
- assisted Russian officials in plundering oil and gas fields on the Kerch shelf of the Black Sea,
- passed secret information about the location of a Ukrainian military unit to Russia,
- ensured the operation of a network of influence that shaped public opinion in Ukraine that was favorable to the Russian Federation.
The indictment in this case is currently pending in court.
In addition to the politicians, the Prosecutor General's Office is investigating cases against three other prominent businessmen who have been sanctioned by the National Security and Defense Council. Details of their crimes have not yet been disclosed.
The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials insist on the need to bring these cases to court.
