Medvedchuk's Lawyer Heads the Legal Department of ARMA: What It Means

Appointment of Bohdan Koval at ARMA

According to Главком: Lawyer Bohdan Koval has been temporarily performing the duties of the director of the legal support department of the Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA) since December 26, 2021. Koval previously defended Viktor Medvedchuk, which drew some attention from the public. It is noted that at the time of his appointment, Koval also suspended his right to practice law.

Before his new appointment, on December 25, 2021, Koval held the position of chief specialist in the legislative acts systematization department of ARMA. The order to assign him the duties of the legal department head was signed by Yaroslav Maksymenko. Koval obtained his attorney's license in October 2020, and in May 2021 he was alongside Viktor Medvedchuk when the latter was handed a suspicion notice by the Office of the Attorney General.

ARMA's Responsibilities and Challenges for Koval

ARMA is responsible for managing assets that are seized in criminal proceedings. The agency is in possession of the property of Medvedchuk and his wife Marchenko, which are under criminal proceedings. Among the seized assets is Medvedchuk's yacht Royal Romance, which is currently in Croatia.

On December 29, 2021, Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced a change in the coordination of ARMA. In the context of his new role, Koval noted:

“It's difficult for a lawyer to comment on this situation because it is not about law; it is about politics.”

The appointment of Bohdan Koval as the temporary director of the legal support department of ARMA evokes mixed reactions in society, especially considering his previous activities related to Viktor Medvedchuk. ARMA, as an agency dealing with the management of seized assets, particularly those linked to Medvedchuk, is in the spotlight, increasing the responsibility of the newly appointed manager. The situation surrounding ARMA demonstrates not only legal but also political challenges that may affect the agency's efficiency amid growing political tension in the country.