Serbian Citizenship Granted During Criminal Proceedings
Vadym Novynskyi, a businessman and former Ukrainian parliamentarian, was fast-tracked to Serbian citizenship following a decree signed by Serbia’s Prime Minister Đuro Mačut. This development comes as Novynskyi is wanted in Ukraine on charges of treason. He joins hundreds of foreign nationals, including numerous Russians, who have recently obtained Serbian passports through expedited channels, bypassing the usual procedures.
In Ukraine, a criminal case is active against Novynskyi. In January 2025, the State Bureau of Investigations alongside the Security Service of Ukraine officially accused him of treason and inciting religious hostility. These allegations fall under two specific articles of the Ukrainian Criminal Code:
- Part 1, Article 111 (Treason)
- Part 2, Article 161 (Violation of citizens' equality based on race, nationality, regional affiliation, or religion, committed by an organized group)
Background and Business Ventures
Born in Russia’s Novgorod region, Novynskyi acquired Ukrainian citizenship in 2012. During his time in parliament, he supported the controversial 'dictatorship laws' passed on January 16 and opposed legislation affirming Ukraine’s sovereignty over the occupied Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Forbes ranked him as the 8th richest Ukrainian in 2021, estimating his net worth at $1.4 billion. His holdings included a 23.76% stake in the mining and metallurgical company Metinvest.
Novynskyi’s 2020 asset declaration revealed an extensive collection of luxury clothing, fur items, and jewelry belonging to his wife, as well as a valuable assortment of religious icons from the 19th to 21st centuries. Notably, a St. Nicholas the Wonderworker icon was appraised at 706,000 hryvnias. In July 2022, he resigned from parliament to focus on humanitarian initiatives and serve the Ukrainian Orthodox Church under the Moscow Patriarchate.
On June 25, 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky enacted the National Security and Defense Council’s decision to extend sanctions targeting Russian companies, businessmen, and individuals connected to Russia, including Novynskyi. This move underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding his activities and signals potential ramifications both domestically and internationally.
Novynskyi’s acquisition of Serbian citizenship amid pending criminal charges in Ukraine may mark a turning point in his career and business pursuits. This decision could also strain Ukraine-Serbia relations, given his controversial standing within Ukraine. Against the backdrop of continuing conflict and political shifts in Ukraine, authorities remain vigilant, with further investigations and legal consequences likely on the horizon.