Former Deputy Prime Minister Chernyshov Breaks Silence on $11 Million NABU Allegations

Oleksii Chernyshov Responds to NABU Accusations

According to Главком: Oleksii Chernyshov, who served as Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Unity from 2024 to 2025, has issued his first public response to new allegations from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU). On May 12, anti-corruption authorities announced that Chernyshov was allegedly the mastermind behind a scheme to launder 460 million hryvnias (approximately $11 million), linked to the construction of the upscale cottage community 'Dynasty' in Kozyn, near Kyiv. Chernyshov denies any wrongdoing and considers the charges unfounded.

Background and Statements

It is worth noting that Chernyshov transitioned to public service at the end of 2019. Following that, he divested his ownership stake in the construction company, as required by law. In his statement, Chernyshov explained:

“I was indeed involved with the land plot and the initial planning stages of the development project before entering public service. This was a standard investment and development project carried out by the relevant companies and market participants. At the same time, financial obligations remained between me and the company related to previously invested funds, which were to be repaid after the construction and sale of the properties.”

As part of this case, the High Anti-Corruption Court considered pre-trial restrictions for four company employees. Investigators requested detention and bail ranging from 20 to 120 million hryvnias. However, the court rejected the harshest measures, and none of the suspects were taken into custody. The bail amounts were also reduced.

NABU and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) have charged Chernyshov under Part 3 of Article 209 of the Criminal Code, which addresses the laundering of proceeds obtained through criminal means by an organized group. The penalties under this article include:

• imprisonment for 8 to 12 years;
• a ban on holding certain positions or engaging in specific activities for up to three years;
• confiscation of property.

Chernyshov also commented on the investigation's demands, stating:

“We view such demands as clear pressure from the investigation, as the amounts are completely disproportionate to the actual financial standing of these individuals.”

This situation has sparked widespread public interest, as it involves a high-ranking official holding a key government position. As Minister of National Unity, Chernyshov oversees matters related to Ukraine's domestic policy, making his name well-known and the allegations potentially damaging to his career and the government's reputation. Importantly, this case may also fit into the broader context of Ukraine's ongoing anti-corruption efforts, which remain a critical focus for the country's international partners.

In light of these serious allegations, it's crucial to understand the broader context of Chernyshov's situation. For instance, another recent report details how the former Deputy Prime Minister is also facing charges related to a separate $9 million laundering scheme. This highlights ongoing scrutiny of his financial dealings and the implications for his political career. To explore this development further, read more about the charges against Chernyshov in this related article.