US Edition
Ukraine charges six people, including lawmaker, in drone procurement scheme
UKRAINE, AUG 4 – Six individuals face charges for embezzling up to $80,000 in a $240,000 military drone contract, part of Ukraine's broader anti-corruption efforts tied to its EU aspirations.
- Ukraine charged six people including a lawmaker, a current and a sacked official, a national guard commander, and two businessmen for a military procurement scheme, authorities said.
- On Saturday, anti-corruption authorities said they uncovered a kickback scheme involving inflated procurement prices for drones and electronic warfare systems, vital for Ukraine's EU future.
- Authorities said the US$240,000 drone contract included an inflation of about US$80,000, with bribes totaling around 30% and equipment sourced locally.
- The lawmaker was ordered into two months’ custody with bail set at around US$190,000, and Serhiy Haidai was remanded for 60 days with bail of $240,000, authorities said.
- Kyiv’s reliance on drones and electronic warfare systems to fight Moscow’s invasion underscores why tackling procurement graft is critical to its EU future.
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14 Articles
Ukrainian lawmaker, ex-governor jailed in drone procurement corruption case
According to investigators, officials involved in the scheme allegedly received up to 30% of contract funds as kickbacks. Among those detained are lawmaker Oleksii Kuznetsov and former Luhansk Oblast Governor Serhii Haidai.
Drone Deal Deceit: Ukraine Charges Officials in Corruption Scandal
Ukraine has charged six individuals, including a lawmaker, over embezzlement involving funds for drones and military equipment. The case is part of a broader anti-corruption initiative crucial for EU integration. The conspirators allegedly inflated contract prices and pocketed the excess, amounting to significant financial misconduct.
In addition to the representative, a former county governor, a city military leader, a National Guard commander, and the head of a drone manufacturing company were also indicted.
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