That questions hang over the integrity of Ukraine’s justice system is no secret. Indeed it is an issue of great concern in Brussels as Ukraine’s accession to the EU – something that the EU institutions and the member states alike (with one notable exception), are keen to facilitate as quickly and smoothly as possible – and one that Kyiv will be required to meaningfully address prior to accession.
People who left Ukraine, but who are looking for justice in Europe. All of them are different, their stories unique. They are united by only one thing: a lack of trust in the Ukrainian justice system and an expectation that they can find justice in Europe.
Many are now looking to EU justice as an example for how Ukraine’s judiciary will function after accession to the EU – because with such reform such accession will not happen.
Here we review five ongoing cases that serve to illustrate the scale of the challenge – both to Kyiv and Brussels – those of Kostyantyn Zhevago, Yevhen Cherniak, Maxim Lyashko, Andriy Ostrohrud, and Andriy Naumov.
1. Kostyantyn Zhevago: Ukrainian court orders seizure of Ferrexpo shares amidst billionaire’s legal battle
A recent decision by a Ukrainian court has stirred the ongoing saga of legal disputes and financial turmoil, as it issued an order to seize shares owned by billionaire Kostyantyn Zhevago in the iron pellet producer Ferrexpo.
Kostyantyn Zhevago.
This move, linked to compensation claims arising from the collapse of Zhevago’s Finance & Credit Bank in 2015, marks a significant escalation in the legal challenges surrounding the prominent Ukrainian figure.
Zhevago, a well-known name in Ukrainian business and politics, has long been at the centre of controversy. Accusations of embezzlement and money laundering, related to the disappearance of $113 million from Finance & Credit Bank, have dogged him for years.
Despite vehemently denying these allegations and asserting that his prosecution is politically motivated, Zhevago now faces intensified legal scrutiny as the Ukrainian Deposit Guarantee Fund seeks to recover approximately $1.25 billion in damages.
”More than 90 (Ukrainian) banks and the bank F&C in particular – lost huge amounts of money, assets, loans, collateral, they lost billions in property and in their credit books because Russia fought and occupied large parts of Ukraine,” said Kostyantyn Zhevago.
At the core of this legal drama lies Ferrexpo, a major player in the iron ore industry.
The court’s order targets Zhevago’s majority ownership stakes in several mining plants owned by Ferrexpo, located in the Poltava region of Ukraine.
While Ferrexpo has assured that the company has no intention of transferring the seized shares, concerns arise about the potential impact on one of Ukraine’s leading exporters of iron ore pellets.
Zhevago’s defense against the accusations is robust, emphasizing the legitimacy of his entrepreneurial activities and investments.
He contends that his persecution is part of a broader political campaign targeting prominent business figures, casting doubt on the motives behind the legal proceedings.
”This populism is finding fertile ground among the war-torn Ukrainian population. Unfortunately, the Ukrainian government is not acting in the best interests of its citizens: its aim is rather to silence unwelcome critics of the political system…”
However, amidst these legal battles, there is a pressing need for investments to rebuild Ukraine after years of conflict and war.
The country’s infrastructure and economy have been ravaged, making attracting investors crucial for the nation’s recovery.
The persecution of businessmen, particularly those with significant investments and assets in Ukraine, sends a troubling message to potential investors, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and mistrust, deterring much-needed capital from flowing into the country and hindering its post-war reconstruction efforts.
The timing of these events is particularly unfortunate, occurring amidst President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s push to reform Ukraine’s economy and curb corruption.
Zelenskiy’s administration has pledged to reduce the influence of oligarchs, a term Zhevago vehemently rejects, signaling a broader crackdown on entrenched interests within Ukraine’s political and economic landscape.
Zhevago’s legal battles extend beyond Ukraine’s borders, as evidenced by his arrest in France on an international warrant while released on bail pending an extradition hearing,
Meanwhile, Ferrexpo finds itself ensnared in a separate investigation regarding potential underpayment of iron ore royalty payments.
Despite denying these allegations, the company faces heightened scrutiny as authorities scrutinise its financial practices.
The need for foreign investment in Ukraine’s recovery cannot be overstated.
With infrastructure in disrepair and economic growth stunted by years of conflict, the country is in desperate need of capital infusion to rebuild and revitalise its economy.
However, the ongoing legal battles involving Zhevago and other prominent businessmen cast a shadow of uncertainty over Ukraine’s investment climate.
Potential investors, both domestic and international, are likely to be deterred by the spectre of legal persecution and the lack of clarity surrounding property rights and the rule of law.
The seizure of Ferrexpo shares and the targeting of Zhevago’s assets only serve to exacerbate these concerns, creating a challenging environment for businesses looking to operate in Ukraine.
Moreover, the timing of these legal proceedings is particularly detrimental, occurring amidst President Zelenskiy’s efforts to reform Ukraine’s economy and reduce corruption.
While these reforms are necessary for Ukraine’s long-term prosperity, the current climate of legal uncertainty risks undermining these efforts and stifling economic growth.
For Ukraine to attract the investment it desperately needs, it must demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting property rights.
This requires fair and transparent legal proceedings that adhere to international standards of justice, as well as a concerted effort to root out corruption and ensure a level playing field for businesses.
2. Yevhen Cherniak: Struggling Amid Allegations of Financing Russian Aggression
Yevhen Cherniak. By Sladky1 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25172721
Yevhen Cherniak, the driving force behind Ukraine’s successful Global Spirits business, is facing serious legal troubles as he’s accused of financially supporting Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine.
Despite strongly denying the accusations made by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), Cherniak is dealing with increasing legal problems at home and abroad.
Nature of SBU Accusations
Chernyak continues to hold about 10% of the vodka market in Russia, despite his public statements.
The agreement to purchase companies “Rodnik i K” and “Russkiy Sever” was a mere transfer of property to Chernyak’s loyal employee, Alexander Bespalov.
These companies produced vodka under the brands “Khortytsya,” “Morosha,” and “Pervak,” collectively occupying about 10% of the Russian vodka market.
After the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24th February 2022, Chernyak’s holding revoked licenses for vodka production under its own brands and threatened strict prosecution for those who use its brands.
Chernyak-Bespalov’s companies continue to supply vodka to Russian supermarkets under both old and new brands.
The OSINT community Molfar continues to investigate Ukrainian brands associated with the Russian Federation, focusing on the vodka business of the Chernyak family.
Key to this story is the Cypriot company AMG-77 Investment Ltd, through which Evgeniy Chernyak owned the Ukrainian company Global Spirits.
The ceased to own Russian legal entities in May 2022, and Alexander Bespalov became the new owner of all previously Cypriot-controlled Russian companies.
In June 2022, a legal entity, possibly belonging to the Ukrainian group Global Spirits, registered the “Shustov” trademark in Russia, indicating that the company seems to continue to operate in the Russian market.
Cherniak’s Defence.
Cherniak vehemently rebuffs these accusations, citing the sanctions imposed against Global Spirits in Russia since 2014 and the subsequent revocation of its license on February 24, 2022. He emphasises that his company terminated all operations in Russia as a testament to its unwavering allegiance to Ukrainian sovereignty.
In a succinct Facebook post, Cherniak delineated his defence, stating:
“Sanctions have been in force against Global Spirits in Russia since 2014. The company could not have any assets there.
“The license was revoked on February 24th, no one looked at the losses, no one will work with the murderers of Ukrainians. This is the base.”
Despite Cherniak’s fervent denial, he, along with six senior executives of Global Spirits, is confronted severe charges of “assisting the aggressor state,” carrying a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison.
Cherniak attributes these allegations to a potential corporate takeover scheme aimed at destabilising Ukraine’s leading market player, vehemently professing his innocence.
Addressing the specifics of the case, Cherniak vehemently refutes any association with the enterprises mentioned in the allegations, underscoring their unfounded nature.
He accentuates the absurdity of the accusations, pointing out that the documents presented in the case do not pertain to tax payments in Russia but involve enterprises in Central Asia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.
“The documents in the case do not pertain to tax payments in the Russian Federation, but rather to certain enterprises in Central Asia, Sakartvelo, and Azerbaijan.
“I neither was nor am the owner or official of these enterprises, nor have I ever rented them.
“None of the company’s management team holds any official or beneficiary status in the specified companies and factories. Consequently, the notion of blaming us for any involvement with these entities is utter absurdity,” Cherniak asserted firmly.
Moreover, Cherniak accentuates his company’s substantial contributions to Ukraine, both as a leading taxpayer in the industry and through its support for the Ukrainian armed forces. He expresses his willingness to collaborate with authorities to dispel what he terms as “legal insanity,” underscoring his unyielding commitment to justice and integrity.
Legal Challenges in Russia.
In a remarkable turn of events, the Russian Investigative Committee initiated a criminal case against Cherniak in July 2023, alleging him of financing terrorist activities by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Russia. This development further complicates Cherniak’s legal predicament, placing him in the crosshairs of Russian law enforcement.
Adding another layer of complexity, two of Cherniak’s Russian associates have been apprehended on suspicion of bribery, as confirmed by Russia’s Investigative Committee.
Alexander Bespalov, the owner of two Russian distilleries, and Andrei Lazutin, the CEO of one of these distilleries, are embroiled in the bribery scandal.
The Investigative Committee has announced its intentions to seize Cherniak’s Russian business assets in the foreseeable future.
Bespalov’s acquisition of Cherniak’s distilleries, “Russky Sever” and “Rodnik i K,” in April 2022, initially perceived as a strategic move to disentangle Cherniak from Russian business ties during wartime, has now come under scrutiny.
Kommersant, a leading business daily, identified Khortytsa and Morosha, both products of Global Spirits, as Russia’s top two vodka brands in 2021, underscoring the significance of Cherniak’s presence in the Russian market.
In response to the mounting legal pressures, Global Spirits has revoked its product and distribution licenses in Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Additionally, the company has initiated legal action in Cyprus to address the unauthorised use of its intellectual property.
3. Maxim Lyashko, former CEO of Parimatch, wants his day in Court.
Maxim Lyashko.
Maxim Lyashko, the former Chief Executive Officer and a supervisory board member of Parimatch Tech, boasts over 15 years of expertise in law and business relations.
He commenced his tenure with the company in 2016, assuming leadership of the legal team before ascending to a partnership role in 2018.
Lyashko’s focal areas encompass strategic development, diversification, and the geographic expansion of the Parimatch brand.
The landscape of gambling in Ukraine is currently poised on the cusp of legalization, with President Volodymyr Zelensky ratifying legislation to legalize gambling activities comprehensively.
This legislation aims to regulate all forms of gambling, thereby eradicating shadow operations and offshore activities that undermine state interests.
However, concerns persist regarding the absence of clear tax regulations, coupled with the substantial financial outlay required for licensing, posing notable obstacles to foreign investment within Ukraine’s gambling sector.
Parimatch Tech, in its pursuit of international expansion and potentially augmenting its valuation in anticipation of a prospective sale, has made strategic acquisitions, including the Ukrainian online poker room PokerMatch and the marketing company Mr.fish.
These acquisitions align with Parimatch’s overarching strategy of procuring valued contractors to fulfill internal requirements, penetrate new markets, and diversify revenue streams.
Particularly, the acquisition of PokerMatch is perceived as a means to synergize operations and capitalize on cross-promotional opportunities between sports betting and poker.
Speculation has emerged surrounding Parimatch’s recent strategic maneuvers, suggesting preparations for a potential sale. The company’s valuation fluctuates, with Forbes approximating its worth at approximately $550 million.
Despite ongoing hostilities, certain Ukrainian enterprises continue to conduct operations in Russia and Belarus, thereby bolstering the economies of perceived aggressor nations.
As of June 2022, Parimatch has upheld its pro-Ukrainian stance by halting operations in Russia and severing ties with Russian entities.
In Belarus, management has been transitioned to a local team to ensure compliance with all pertinent laws and regulations during this transitional phase.
Additionally, Parimatch has extended support to Ukrainian troops amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. This assistance encompasses procuring personal protective equipment, military gear, vehicles, and fuel, while also facilitating the provision of ammunition to employees serving in the Armed Forces and Territorial Defense Units.
Furthermore, Parimatch collaborates with charitable foundations to mobilize resources for essential supplies and extends aid to internally displaced persons, offering shelter and sustenance to over 4,000 individuals in western Ukraine.
The company has contributed over 2 million hryvnias to various beneficiaries, including the Ministry of Social Policy, the “Women of Steel” foundation in Mariupol, and the Shakhtar Social Foundation of FC Shakhtar.
GR8 Tech, a nascent contender in the global iGaming B2B market, emerged on January 25th, 2023, to deliver technical solutions within the sector.
The company offers consulting, integration, and operational services through a streamlined “single window” approach, furnishing stable and scalable iGaming business solutions. GR8 Tech is poised to make its inaugural offline appearance at ICE London from February 7 to 9, 2023.
Maxim Lyashko, the CEO of Parimatch Holdings, disclosed that approximately 250 million UAH belonging to the company’s clientele currently reside in blocked accounts due to sanctions imposed by President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Consequently, the company has suspended the withdrawal of clients’ funds, resulting in the accumulation of 250 million UAH within its accounts.
Despite meeting significant tax obligations in the preceding year, Parimatch faces scrutiny from the Bureau of Economic Security regarding tax payments, alongside other entities within the gambling market.
Parimatch contends that Ukrainian banks initiated the disconnection of their acquiring services several weeks preceding the imposition of sanctions against the company.
Throughout 2022, the company endeavored to secure approval from Ukrainian banks to operate with MCC codes for gaming activities, a practice previously unrecognized within Ukraine for numerous years.
These disruptions transpired manually, with continuous pressure exerted on the company, hinting at potential coercion or motives driven by industrial competition.
Forbes has posited two principal theories concerning the blocking of Parimatch in Ukraine following President Zelensky’s sanctioning.
Notably, the company has incurred significant losses, including an estimated €80 million relinquished in royalties from the Russian franchise.
As a consequence of sanctions levied by the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC), Parimatch has announced the termination of cooperation with 1,100 employees and contractors associated with its Ukrainian operations.
CEO Maxim Lyashko lamented this decision, underscoring the company’s obligations to employees, clients, Ukraine, the Armed Forces, and the sporting community.
On March 10th, 2023, President Zelensky imposed economic sanctions spanning 50 years on 120 individuals and 287 legal entities, including betting companies like Parimatch.
In response, Parimatch Ukraine issued an open letter to the president, asserting its readiness for public discourse, media inquiries, law enforcement interrogations, and legal defense in court.
Parimatch, the primary taxpayer within the gambling industry at the time of sanctions’ imposition, remitted 51% of all gambling industry taxes in 2022-2023.
Subsequently, the company is compelled to suspend operations within Ukraine until the sanctions are fully rescinded, with its legal team focusing solely on safeguarding legitimate interests.
Clients’ funds remain locked within blocked accounts and will be released to rightful owners upon resolution of the situation.
4. Andriy Ostrohrud, CEO of Kyivguma, appeals to President Zelensky for protection against systemic attacks by law enforcement.
Andriy Ostrohrud.
Kyivguma, a prominent Ukrainian company with a rich heritage spanning 90 years, specializes in manufacturing rubber, latex, PVC, TEP, and silicone products.
With an extensive product range of nearly 4,000 items and distribution to 28 countries, the company is renowned for its high-quality products, including medical supplies, maternal and child care products, as well as goods for agriculture and industry.
From humble beginnings with only two machines, the company has transformed into a comprehensive enterprise boasting modern facilities across four workshops.
Relocating its production to Brovary six years ago allowed Kyivguma to enhance its operations while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
With approximately 500 highly skilled employees, the company emphasizes their training and well-being, and has become a key player in Ukraine’s industrial landscape, dedicated to sustainable development and social responsibility.
The ongoing dispute involving Kyivguma and its provision of essential medical supplies to the Ukrainian Armed Forces has brought attention to regulatory and political complexities.
At the crux of the matter is a customs dispute over the classification of scissors previously imported duty-free for military medical kits.
This reclassification by Kyiv Customs subjected the scissors to tariffs and VAT, disrupting supply chains and prompting financial concerns for Kyivguma.
Conflicting interpretations of the scissors’ classification compounded the issue, leading to a legal deadlock.
A temporary parliamentary commission, led by lawmaker Yaroslav Zheleznyak, has been convened, underscoring broader apprehensions about customs corruption.
The dismissal of the head of the State Customs Service due to alleged misconduct further underscores the gravity of the situation.
Kyivguma, alongside other stakeholders, is actively engaging with governmental and business entities to seek resolution.
CEO Andriy Ostrohrud has expressed willingness to collaborate for a favorable outcome, while efforts are underway to explore regulatory amendments accommodating exemptions for emergency medical supplies.
Amidst uncertainties, concerns linger regarding customs decisions’ unpredictability and their impact on military provisions, emphasizing the necessity of clear and consistent policies to safeguard national security interests.
At a meeting hosted by the Office of the President to foster collaboration between businesses and law enforcement, key figures from leading Ukrainian companies, including Kyivguma, convened to address systemic industry issues.
Discussions centered on challenges spanning resource extraction, land registration, law enforcement involvement in procurement, and historical corruption in the forestry sector.
Rostyslav Shurma, deputy head of the President’s Office, noted progress in resolving some issues discussed. This meeting, attended by government officials, forms part of a series aimed at facilitating dialogue between businesses and governmental bodies to tackle sector-specific challenges.
Meanwhile, Kyivguma faces pressure to withdraw from direct contracts with the Ministry of Defense amidst allegations orchestrated by unknown intermediaries.
Ostrohrud revealed a raiding attack on the company coinciding with efforts by lesser-known firms to introduce low-quality Chinese medical kits.
Law enforcement agencies’ pursuit of fabricated criminal cases against Kyivguma adds to concerns about targeted exclusion from defense contracts.
Ostrohrud disclosed details to NV regarding meetings at the President’s Office, lobbying in the military supply sector, and potential perpetrators behind the pressure on Kyivguma.
He highlighted the company’s appeal to President Zelensky for protection against systemic attacks by law enforcement.
Despite these efforts, law enforcement pressure persists, evidenced by the initiation of a criminal case against Kyivguma and alleged lobbying for Chinese medical kits.
Ostrohrud revealed a meeting with Alexander Stroganov, suggesting attempts to dissuade Kyivguma from participating in certain tenders. The alleged linkage of the criminal case to lobbying for Chinese kits underscores suspicions of market redistribution.
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) conducted searches at Kyivguma, alleging supply of tactical medical supplies to Russia.
Ostrohrud refuted these accusations, citing cessation of collaboration with Russia since February 2022. Public outcry over law enforcement pressure prompted calls to President Zelensky to intervene, citing national security risks.
Ostrohrud’s comprehensive account to BusinessCensor challenges SBU allegations, emphasizing adherence to ethical business practices and questioning the authenticity of evidence presented.
In summary, Andriy Ostrohrud’s detailed narrative sheds light on Kyivguma’s challenges amidst accusations of collusion with an aggressor state.
His steadfast commitment to transparency and ethical conduct underscores the importance of fair treatment in times of crisis.
Kyivguma’s resolve to uphold integrity amidst adversity exemplifies the resilience of Ukrainian businesses facing external pressures.
5. The Allegations Surrounding Andriy Naumov: Fact or Fiction?
Former SBU Brigadier General Andriy Naumov
Andriy Naumov, a former senior SBU official, has faced allegations of treason and collaboration with Russian forces, particularly in the aftermath of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant’s swift seizure by Russians on February 24, 2022.
As the former head of the Main Directorate of Internal Security of the SBU, Naumov attracted intense scrutiny amid suggestions of his possible involvement in assisting the Russians. President Zelensky labelled him a “traitor,” while the State Bureau of Investigations (DBR) hinted at his connection to another case of state treason.
Naumov’s subsequent arrest in Serbia in June 2022, on charges of undeclared cash possession, further fuelled speculation.
Despite spending nearly one and a half years in a Serbian prison, no official charges of treason have been brought against him in Ukraine.
His reputation as the “grey cardinal” of the SBU, implicated in smuggling and extortion, has led to widespread demonisation.
However, the lack of concrete evidence and the reluctance of Ukrainian authorities to pursue him raise questions about the validity of the accusations against him.
Career
Naumov’s career trajectory is remarkable, having served in various capacities within Ukraine’s legal and security apparatus. He began his career in the corridors of the Prosecutor General’s Office before transitioning to a position at the State Agency for Management of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone.
In the summer of 2019, Ivan Bakanov, a close associate of President Volodymyr Zelensky and the newly appointed head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), invited Naumov to join his team. Naumov assumed leadership of the Main Directorate of Internal Security of the SBU, where his responsibilities included overseeing SBU personnel to combat criminal activities and corruption.
Notably, details regarding the operations of this unit remain classified. Despite being honoured with the military rank of brigadier general by the president in October 2020, Naumov’s rank was stripped amid the outbreak of the full-scale invasion.
Assassination Attempt
During his tenure in the SBU, Andriy Naumov faced a significant event in January 2021 when law enforcement agencies thwarted an attempt on his life. The plot involved Yuriy Rasyuk, an SBU employee, suspected of orchestrating the crime, allegedly at the behest of Dmytro Neskoryomny, a former SBU deputy head.
The motive for this crime remains uncertain. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has suggested internal power struggles and disputes over personnel appointments as potential factors. However, media speculation also raises the possibility of a power struggle concerning financial resources within the SBU. Furthermore, there are widespread suggestions linking the Russian Federation to the assassination attempt. Naumov himself has attributed the incident to his and Ivan Bakanov’s anti-corruption initiatives within the SBU. As a result, individuals implicated in corruption may have orchestrated the attack to hinder Naumov’s efforts and reclaim their former positions.
While Neskoryomny has evaded investigation, Rasyuk admitted guilt and provided testimony against the instigator, resulting in a relatively lenient three-year prison sentence in July 2021.
Following the incident, Naumov and his family received round-the-clock protection, prompting their relocation to Germany in 2022.
Allegations and Legal Cases in Ukraine
Andriy Naumov’s career took a significant turn in July 2021 when President Zelensky discharged him from service after dismantling a clandestine network operated by the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) within the Kherson region. This network reportedly involved law enforcement officers and officials.
Amidst the Russo-Ukrainian war in March 2022, President Zelensky labelled Naumov a “traitor” and revoked his status as brigadier general. Naumov’s name became associated with a treason case involving Oleg Kulinich, the former head of the Crimean SBU, who faced charges of various crimes.
Investigations suggested that Kulinich advocated for Naumov’s elevation within the SBU, alleging connections to Russian intelligence agencies.
Despite public accusations, formal treason charges against Naumov have not been pursued.
Despite these allegations, official investigations by Ukraine’s security services have failed to substantiate claims of wrongdoing by Naumov.
Inquiries conducted by both the BBC and the National Agency for Prevention of Corruption concluded that there is insufficient evidence to support the treason allegations levelled against him.
However, Naumov remains under investigation in Ukraine for financial crimes, which he denies.
These include allegations of fraudulent salary receipts and misappropriation during his tenure at the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone Management Department. Specifically, he is accused of misappropriation, embezzlement, or unlawful seizure of property through abuse of his official position.
Additionally, he faces charges of abusing his official position, as well as fraud, resulting in damages to the state amounting to over 3.2 million Ukrainian hryvnias (equivalent of 77K EUR).
Departure Amidst Allegations
Andriy Naumov, father of 3 minors, asserts that his departure on the eve of Russia’s full-scale war on Ukraine was coincidental, aiming to visit family abroad. In a recent interview with BBC, Naumov addresses the accusations levied against him and the circumstances surrounding his departure.
When questioned about being labelled a “state traitor” due to leaving Ukraine just before the conflict’s escalation, Naumov counters, stating his exit was primarily to ensure his family’s safety.
He explains that his family had relocated to Germany earlier due to security concerns, and his departure was merely to accompany them and transport their belongings.
Naumov emphasises that he had initially planned to return within ten days but was compelled to remain abroad as the situation escalated.
He refutes assertions of fleeing the country, attributing his prolonged absence to the necessity of ensuring his family’s well-being amidst the unfolding crisis.
Serbian Case
On 7th June 2022, Andriy Naumov was apprehended at the Serbia-North Macedonia border. He was found in possession of undeclared cash and gems, leading to his detention in Niš pending extradition and money laundering investigations. Naumov contested the charges, citing political motivations and security concerns if returned to Ukraine.
In July 2023, Serbia denied his extradition, citing the ongoing Ukrainian investigation into potential treason charges as politically motivated.
The Serbian court declined to extradite Naumov, citing concerns of political persecution in Ukraine.
The State Bureau of Investigations (DBR) has been investigating Naumov for over a year for alleged treason, but insufficient evidence has led to no indictment.
The court also referenced a prior assassination attempt on Naumov, indicating a credible threat to his safety, along with President Zelensky’s branding of him as a “traitor.” The court deemed Zelensky’s remarks prejudiced, violating Naumov’s presumption of innocence and potentially endangering him if extradited.
“I encountered considerable opposition during my tenure as head of the SBU department, particularly due to my oversight of activities related to corruption. Throughout my service, my family and I were under constant protection due to credible threats of abduction. I firmly believe that the attempt on my life is linked to these endeavors,” Naumov elucidated to the court, underscoring his reluctance to return to Ukraine.
Regarding the money laundering case, Naumov claimed that the undeclared cash found in his possession was intended for relocating due to the conflict in Ukraine.
However, inconsistencies in testimonies and financial records raised doubts about the cash’s legality. Naumov was sentenced to one year in prison for money laundering, with confiscation of seized assets.
In December 2023 Former SBU General Andriy Naumov, who served 1,5 years in a Serbian prison for money laundering, has been released. The High Court of Niš confirmed his release, albeit with restrictions pending an appeal hearing.
Naumov’s legal team has contested these restrictions, citing concerns for his safety and pointing out inconsistencies in the court’s actions. Despite their efforts, the court upheld the travel ban, leaving Naumov unable to leave the country until the appeal process concludes.
The appeal, lodged against the decision of the High Court in Niš regarding Naumov’s conviction for money laundering, outlines several grounds for nullifying the verdict.
Among these are alleged violations of criminal procedure provisions, errors in establishing the factual situation, lack of clarity in the decision, and improper qualification of the criminal act.
The appellate court in the Serbian city of Niš on February 14 overturned the verdict of the first instance court, which sentenced Ukrainian citizen Andriy Naumov to one year in prison for money laundering.
This information was confirmed to the Balkan service of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty by the court’s press service.
The case has been returned to the Niš court for a new decision.
What’s next for Andriy Naumov?
In an interview with BBC, Andriy Naumov outlined his plans for the future once the legal proceedings in Serbia conclude and he is released.
He stated that he intends to continue his current efforts in seeking justice, particularly through international organisations.
When asked about filing a complaint with the European Court of Human Rights, Naumov confirmed, including the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) as one of the avenues he plans to pursue. This indicates his intention to appeal decisions made by the Serbian court through international legal channels.
Furthermore, Naumov expressed his intention to address events in Ukraine through international legal mechanisms as well. This suggests that he is prepared to challenge legal actions taken against him in Ukraine and potentially seek redress for perceived injustices through international courts.
Andriy Naumov also stated that he intends to return to Ukraine, but only when there is a fair trial. He expressed readiness to testify, but emphasised the need for a just judicial process, stating, “I am ready. But only when there is a fair trial. Because in these cases, there is no element of crime. These cases are fabricated.”
Naumov highlighted his concerns about facing pressure and potential threats upon his return, stating, “I am aware that after this conversation with you, the pressure on me, my family, and my surroundings may intensify many times over.”
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