Former Ukrainian MPs spotted in Dubai: Journalists' investigation

Politicians who left the country spotted at a celebration

In Dubai, journalists spotted three former and current Ukrainian MPs who left the country after the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. 

Among them were Natalia Korolevska and Yurii Solod (both represented the Opposition Platform — For Life party), as well as Serhiy Shakov from the Our Region party. The politicians were seen at the birthday celebration of the mother of MP Vadym Stolar.

This information became known thanks to an investigation by Ukrainian journalists, who continue to track the whereabouts of politicians who left Ukraine in the midst of the war.

Korolevska and ties to Opposition Platform — For Life

Despite the fact that Korolevska resigned her mandate in 2023, her name still features in the context of Opposition Platform — For Life's ties with Russia. Journalists claim that she remains in the party's working chats to this day, which may indicate ongoing political activity.

Korolevska and her husband, former MP Yurii Solod, left Ukraine back in 2022. In recent years, they have settled in Dubai, which has become a refuge for a number of former officials and businessmen.

Shakov – MP working remotely

Unlike Korolevska and Solod, Serhiy Shakov has not resigned his mandate, but he is also located outside Ukraine. Moreover, he continues to participate in parliamentary sessions online. A few weeks ago, he even attended a session of the committee on environmental policy, which raised questions about the legitimacy of this format of work.