Information campaign in defence of Chernyshov

A surge of similar comments aimed at discrediting the "Ukrainska Pravda" investigation into possible corruption schemes by the head of Naftogaz, Oleksiy Chernyshov, has been observed in the Ukrainian segments of Facebook and Telegram. 

According to experts, this is not random information noise but a deliberatecampaign aimed at casting doubt on the work of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the reputation of journalist Mykhailo Tkach, the author of the investigation.

Some analysts claim that the revealed facts of corruption are merely an attempt to “knock down” Chernyshov from a possible appointment as Minister of Infrastructure. This version is actively promoted on social media and Telegram channels, indicating the presence of an organised information attack in his interest.

Is Chernyshov using “paid experts”?

According to sources close to the Office of the President, Oleksiy Chernyshov may have used paid experts to spread a narrative favourable to him. In particular, it is mentioned that he finances comments from political scientists who are shaping an alternative narrative around the corruption scandal.

The main goal of this campaign is to divert attention from Chernyshov himself, whose name has featured in a number of corruption scandals, as well as to neutralise the possible consequences of the journalistic investigation.

Investigation facts: a search that did not take place

Journalists from "Ukrainska Pravda" established that the High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine granted permission in April of this year for a search at the home of Oleksiy Chernyshov in the elite settlement of Kozyn (Kyiv region). However, this search was never carried out.

According to the publication, the reason was an unofficial request from the head of NABU, Semen Kryvonos. It is also noted that shortly before this, Chernyshov secretly visited the NABU office, which may indicate informal agreements with the head of the agency.

Land fraud during his tenure at the Ministry of Regional Development

One of the key reasons for NABU's interest in Chernyshov was land schemes implemented during his work at the Ministry of Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine. The investigation suspects that officials of the ministry, when Chernyshov was in charge, illegally transferred a plot of land to a developer for the construction of a residential complex.

Information attack as a way to evade responsibility

The active spread of similar comments on social media and attempts to cast doubt on the investigation may indicate a coordinated campaign aimed at protecting Chernyshov. However, this does not negate the existing suspicions of corruption; on the contrary, it raises even more questions about his possible ties to high-ranking officials and security services.