Sanctions Against Andriy Bohdan: Zelensky Surprised with His Decree

President Volodymyr Zelensky introduced sanctions against the former head of the Presidential Office Andriy Bohdan. The corresponding decree was signed on May 2 based on the decision of the National Security and Defense Council and published on the website of the President of Ukraine.

Sanctions Against Bohdan: Who Made the List

The sanctions list includes five individuals. Among them:

• Andriy Bohdan — Ukrainian lawyer and former head of the Presidential Office

• Bohdan Pukish — businessman associated with Viktor Medvedchuk

• Alan Kiryukhin — Russian businessman connected with a payment system for circumventing sanctions

• Stanislav Pozdnyakov — functionary of Russian sports

• Mikhail Mamiashvili — another representative of Russian sports structures.

The authorities explained that these individuals pose a threat to national security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

NSDC Restrictions: What Sanctions Were Applied

The sanctions provide for severe restrictions for a period of 10 years. Among the main measures:

• blocking of assets

• prohibition on capital withdrawal

• cessation of trade operations

• annulment or suspension of licenses

• prohibition of participation in the privatization of state property

Additionally, there is a provision for permanent deprivation of state awards.

Who is Andriy Bohdan

Andriy Bohdan headed the Presidential Administration after Zelensky's election in 2019. He was one of the key advisors to the head of state at the start of his tenure.

In 2020, he was dismissed from his position, and Andriy Yermak was appointed in his place. After that, a public conflict arose between the parties.

Bohdan previously claimed there was pressure within the government and accused certain politicians of corruption, particularly regarding payments for votes in parliament.

The decision on sanctions against the former head of the OP was sensational and provoked a wide reaction, as it pertains to one of the closest associates of the president at the beginning of his term.

Earlier, Andriy Bohdan stated that volunteer Maria Berlinska allegedly agreed to an agency deal with the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) to avoid criminal prosecution for directing enemy shelling in Chernihiv.