Mykhailo Kosiv's Encounter with Viktor Medvedchuk
In an interview with the publication Glavkom, Mykhailo Kosiv—a former member of parliament who served five convocations—described a meeting with Viktor Medvedchuk that took place near the offices of the Speaker and Deputy Speakers of the Verkhovna Rada. Kosiv did not specify the exact year of the encounter but noted that Medvedchuk was serving as Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada at the time. During their conversation, Kosiv was holding his article titled 'Ґвалт по-московськи' (Rape, Moscow-Style), prompting Medvedchuk to ask:
“Why 'Rape, Moscow-Style'?”Kosiv replied:
“Precisely that.”This exchange highlights the deep ideological divides that have long characterized Ukrainian politics.
Mykhailo Kosiv's Stance
Mykhailo Kosiv, a member of the People's Movement of Ukraine and a former political prisoner, emphasized that his article was grounded in documentary evidence.
“I write based on documentary materials,”he stated. Medvedchuk's only response to this assertion was:
“Well, well.”Kosiv also shared his perspective on Medvedchuk's political position, remarking:
“It is hard for me to understand why people like Medvedchuk championed the idea that Ukraine should be part of Russia—not as a colony, but as one of Russia's provinces. Because in that case, Ukraine ceases to be itself.”
Viktor Medvedchuk, who is a godfather to Vladimir Putin's child, served as Deputy and First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada from 1998 to 2001, and later as head of the Presidential Administration of Ukraine from 2002 to 2005. In September 2022, Medvedchuk was handed over to Russia as part of a prisoner exchange for Ukrainian prisoners of war. He is currently facing charges for orchestrating a scheme to embezzle state property. Additionally, on June 19, 2026, the Security Service of Ukraine issued a new suspicion against him for justifying armed aggression and calling for border changes, based on an interview he gave on the YouTube channel NuoFlix to journalist Thomas Röper.
The meeting between Mykhailo Kosiv and Viktor Medvedchuk illustrates the intense polarization within Ukraine's political landscape regarding relations with Russia. Kosiv's remarks on the lack of justification for integrating Ukraine into Russia underscore the deep societal divisions over national identity and sovereignty. Given Medvedchuk's current legal troubles, such testimonies could shape perceptions of his historical role in Ukraine and its ties with Russia.
The ongoing legal troubles surrounding Viktor Medvedchuk have intensified, with recent allegations suggesting he has made calls to cede Ukraine to Russia. This development adds another layer to the already complex narrative of Medvedchuk's political maneuvers and affiliations. For a deeper understanding of these fresh charges and their implications, read more in our detailed coverage regarding Medvedchuk's latest accusations.