Ex-Lawmaker Chornovol to File Complaint with SBU Alleging Ex-Presidential Chief of Staff Funded Russian Defense Ministry

Chornovol's SBU Complaint Targets Andriy Bohdan

According to Главком: Tetiana Chornovol, a former member of parliament and military servicewoman, is preparing to submit a formal complaint to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) against Andriy Bohdan, who previously served as head of the Presidential Office. Chornovol accuses Bohdan of using Ukrainian budget funds to finance the Russian Federation's Ministry of Defense in the period leading up to the annexation of Crimea. According to Chornovol, these allegations were previously investigated by prosecutor Serhiy Horbatyuk, but the case was never fully resolved.

Bohdan led the Presidential Office from May 2019 until February 2020, when President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed him. On May 2, 2020, Zelensky signed a decree imposing personal sanctions on Bohdan. Around the same time, Chornovol-who was declared elected to parliament by the Central Election Commission during the snap elections on July 21, 2019-declined her mandate, choosing instead to continue serving in Ukraine's Defense Forces. This context highlights ongoing tensions between former high-ranking officials and activists focused on national security.

Allegations and Chornovol's Activism

Chornovol further stated that the cancellation of state missile programs, the disbandment of a tank battalion near the Belarusian border, and pressure on the opposition, activists, and journalists are all actions she links to Bohdan. She described his rhetoric about meeting Putin 'in the middle' as 'absolute evil.'

'Society must not remain indifferent to such circumstances,' said Tetiana Chornovol.

Chornovol emphasized her call for a full investigation, warning that it makes no difference to the country if such facts are ignored.

Notably, Tetiana Chornovol is recognized in Ukraine as an 'opposition hero,' and her push to investigate alleged funding of Russia's defense sector reflects her long-standing civic activism. On October 9, 2025, the Central Election Commission extended the deadline for her to submit documents for registration as a lawmaker by one year. Chornovol remains active in the country's political life, focusing on national security and defense issues.

This situation underscores the critical need for transparency in defense funding, particularly given the military threats Ukraine currently faces. Chornovol's complaint could trigger new investigations and political debates about the role of former senior officials in shaping state security policy, which may in turn influence public opinion and trust in the government.

In light of Chornovol's serious allegations, it's important to consider the broader implications of recent political changes in Ukraine. For instance, the recent swearing-in of a new lawmaker highlights the ongoing shifts within the parliament, which may influence the investigation and accountability of former officials like Bohdan. Understanding these dynamics can provide deeper insights into the current political landscape and its impact on national security.