Ukraine's Postal Chief Reveals Past Work in Russia, Including Preparing Putin's Briefs and Evading FSB Pressure

Ihor Smilianskyi's Activities in Russia

According to Главком: Ihor Smilianskyi, the head of Ukrposhta (Ukraine's national postal service), has disclosed details of his decade-long career in Russia, where he held senior positions in banks and companies. Smilianskyi stated that he prepared strategic documents for Vladimir Putin, though he clarified he never personally met the Russian president.

"No, we are not acquainted. I saw him, but we never exchanged greetings. Documents were prepared for him, but, thank God, we never greeted each other," Smilianskyi noted.

Special Border Crossing Arrangements

During 2013-2014, while making regular trips between Kyiv and Moscow, the Ukrposhta chief used a special FSB checkpoint, which he says allowed him to avoid pressure.

"The FSB processed me when I was working in Ukraine in 2013-2014, and I was flying to my family in Moscow every week. When the Maidan protests began, they started processing everyone from Ukraine through a special checkpoint," he explained.

Smilianskyi also indicated that an acquaintance with the son of Mikhail Fradkov, the former head of Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), helped him avoid complications during border crossings.

"I know what triggers their Pavlovian response. I would take out business cards and say, 'Look.' At the time, the head of Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service was Fradkov, and I worked with his son. I'd say, 'See? Any questions?'"

In conclusion, Ihor Smilianskyi emphasized that he does not know whether his experience in Russia is a positive or negative factor. "I don't know if it's good or bad," he stated. Smilianskyi holds degrees from American universities, which may have influenced his career trajectory and subsequent decisions. His revelations come at a time of intense scrutiny for Ukrainian officials with past ties to Russia.

The disclosure of details about Ihor Smilianskyi's work in Russia could significantly impact his reputation in Ukraine, especially amid heightened tensions between the two countries. His connections to Russian structures may raise questions about his loyalty and transparency in managing Ukrposhta. This situation underscores the importance of thorough vetting of the professional backgrounds of public servants, particularly in conditions of political instability.

In light of Smilianskyi's past experiences, it's worth exploring how his work at Promsvyazbank for Russian oligarchs shaped his career and influenced his current role in Ukraine's postal service. Such connections may provide further insight into the complexities of his professional journey and the implications for Ukraine today.