The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). Photo: facebook.com/SecurSerUkraine
Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council (NSDC) has imposed sanctions on a number of prominent politicians and businessmen suspected of actions that threaten the country’s territorial integrity and national security. This was reported by the Security Service of Ukraine on Thursday, 13 November.
According to the official report, indefinite sanctions were imposed on five individuals:
- Ihor Kolomoisky (a citizen of Israel),
- Gennadiy Bogolyubov (Ukrainian citizen),
- Konstantin Zhevago (Ukrainian citizen),
- Petro Poroshenko (citizen of Ukraine),
- Viktor Medvedchuk (a citizen of Ukraine).
Criminal cases and suspicions
According to the SBU, most of these individuals are already involved in criminal proceedings under pre-trial investigation by Ukrainian law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies.
In particular, Petro Poroshenko and Viktor Medvedchuk were previously served with suspicions of high treason, assistance to terrorist organisations and other crimes. According to the investigation, during his tenure as president, Poroshenko helped to create Ukraine’s energy dependence on Russia and the so-called L/DPR.
Ihor Kolomoisky was suspected of money laundering, misappropriation of property and other economic crimes.
Sanctions as a tool to combat threats
The imposition of sanctions against these individuals is part of the government’s policy of strengthening control over influential individuals suspected of subversive activities against Ukraine. It is also a signal to international partners of Kyiv’s determination to fight internal and external threats.
The law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation, and the sanctions imposed should serve as an additional lever in bringing the offenders to justice.
