Fact Check: Ukraine's Deputy PM faces corruption charges, highest-ranking official ever to do so.

Fact Check: "Ukraine's Deputy PM faces corruption charges, highest-ranking official ever to do so."

What We Know

Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Chernyshov was formally named a suspect in a significant corruption case on June 23, 2023. This marked a historic moment as he became the highest-ranking official in Ukraine to face such charges while still in office. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) accused him of involvement in a large-scale illegal land grab scheme, which allegedly involved undervaluing land plots to benefit a property developer, resulting in substantial financial losses to the state (Kyiv Independent, Kyiv Post). During his tenure as the Minister of Communities and Territories, it is alleged that Chernyshov and his associates caused state losses amounting to approximately Hr 1 billion (around $24 million) (Kyiv Independent).

Chernyshov has publicly denied the allegations, claiming he is not involved in any wrongdoing and asserting that he will not resign from his position (Kyiv Independent). He has also described the situation as a "smear campaign" against him (Kyiv Independent).

Analysis

The claim that Oleksii Chernyshov is the highest-ranking official in Ukraine to face corruption charges while in office is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The reports from the Kyiv Independent and the Kyiv Post provide detailed accounts of the allegations against him, including the nature of the corruption scheme and the financial implications for the state.

The reliability of these sources is bolstered by their established reputations in Ukrainian journalism, particularly in covering political and corruption issues. Both outlets have a history of investigative reporting and are known for their commitment to accuracy and accountability.

However, it is important to note that Chernyshov has denied the charges and claims that he is a victim of a smear campaign. While his defense is part of the narrative, it does not negate the factual basis of the charges brought against him by NABU. The allegations are serious and involve significant financial misconduct, which has been corroborated by the investigative findings of the anti-corruption bureau.

Conclusion

The claim that Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Chernyshov faces corruption charges and is the highest-ranking official to do so while in office is True. The evidence from credible news sources confirms that he has been formally named a suspect in a significant corruption case, marking a notable event in Ukraine's ongoing struggle against corruption at high levels of government.

Fact Check: Ukraine's Deputy PM faces corruption charges, highest-ranking official ever to do so.