Dmytro Kostiuk’s Shocking Social Media Post
Ukrainian lawmaker Dmytro Kostiuk sparked controversy by sharing a bold image on his Instagram Stories, where he posed wearing only a blazer over his bare chest. In the post, he explained that this type of content strategy doubles audience reach.
“Statistics show that a bare torso gets twice the engagement of my speeches in parliament. That means twice as many people will see my next important message,” said Dmytro Kostiuk.
Proposed Legislation and Public Backlash
Alongside the photo, the deputy announced he had submitted a bill to parliament proposing a halt to state funding for political parties until martial law ends. Kostiuk emphasized that this initiative could redirect two billion hryvnias to Ukraine’s Armed Forces, stating:
“That’s an extra two billion hryvnias for the military, with no need to raise taxes,” Kostiuk added.
The image triggered a wave of criticism on social media, especially after fellow MP Oleksiy Honcharenko reposted it on Facebook. Users flooded the comments with disapproval:
- “A ‘people’s deputy’ indeed. Ukraine has never seen such disgrace.”
- “So first it’s a bare chest... then lower, lower, until we get to the shoelaces?”
- “We deserved this.”
Kostiuk also announced the formation of 'Team Kostiuk.' Notably, in July 2025, he left the 'Servant of the People' faction, citing disagreement with restrictions on the independence of Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office. Responding to critics, he said:
“Correct your mistake: not ‘Servant of the People,’ but non-factional—and feel free to use the photo wherever you want, I don’t mind.”
The photo incident has become a hot topic of public debate, highlighting how modern media and social networks shape political communication. It has also drawn attention to his legislative proposals, especially the plan to fund the Armed Forces—a critical issue amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. The discussion around this controversy could influence how Kostiuk is perceived politically and affect support for his future initiatives.