Umerov suspected of abuse of power

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) has opened an investigation into the country's Defence Minister Rostom Umerov following a complaint from the Anti-Corruption Centre (ACC).

Umerov is suspected of abuse of power or official position. According to information published in the ACC's Telegram channel, this charge may carry a prison sentence of three to six years.

The Defence Minister is accused of unlawfully refusing to extend the contract with the director of the defence procurement agency, Maryna Bezrukova, for the following year. Umerov had accused her of issues regarding the supply of the army. Furthermore, the minister dismissed two members of the supervisory board who had voted in favour of extending Bezrukova's contract. The establishment of such boards in defence procurement agencies was a key NATO recommendation to protect these structures from external influence.

Earlier, Verkhovna Rada deputy Anastasiia Radina expressed confidence that Umerov should resign. She believes that his actions undermine the trust of Ukrainian citizens in the defence sector.

In early December, the Verkhovna Rada voted to invite Umerov to report on allegations of supplying low-quality mines to Ukrainian military personnel by Ukroboronprom.