**Ukrainian Colonel Arrested Over Power Abuse Allegations**
A court in the city of Ternopil has taken into custody a Ukrainian army colonel. Oleh Poberezhniuk, the commander of the 211th Pontoon Bridge Brigade, is suspected of abusing his power.
The bail for Poberezhniuk was set at Hr 908,400 (around $21,600). He is accused of using four subordinates to build his house in another region while they were still on duty. The soldiers were paid their full salaries and received combat payments during this time.
Poberezhniuk’s actions were uncovered by a media investigation that showed soldiers being beaten, extorted, and even tied to a wooden cross as punishment. In response to these allegations, Ukraine’s military leaders have launched an investigation into the abuse of power, extortion, and humiliation of soldiers.
The 211th Brigade is not involved in direct combat but does perform engineering work and builds defenses. The alleged abuses came to light after official checks were started this spring.
A junior officer named Vladyslav Pastukh was also implicated in the investigation. He was accused of extorting money from soldiers because he is related to high-ranking officers, including Poberezhniuk who is his godfather.
The issue of power abuse and corruption in Ukraine’s military has become more pressing as the country faces difficulties in replenishing its army with new recruits. In fact, just recently, reforms were announced focusing on recruitment and training.