**Ukraine: Defense Minister Under Investigation for Abuse of Power**
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) in Ukraine has launched a criminal investigation into the country’s defense minister, Rustem Umerov. The probe is looking into allegations that Umerov abused his power and office position.
According to reports, Umerov recently overruled a decision by the Defense Procurement Agency’s (DPA) supervisory board to extend the contract of its current director, Maryna Bezrukova. Instead, he appointed a new head for the agency and dismissed two members of the supervisory board.
**Background**
The DPA is responsible for procuring defense equipment and supplies for Ukraine’s military. The supervisory board has the authority to hire and fire the heads of state enterprises unilaterally. However, recent amendments to the agency’s charter allow the Defense Ministry to reverse decisions made by the board.
Anti-corruption activists and lawmakers have stated that Umerov’s actions are unlawful and have filed a complaint with NABU to open an investigation into his conduct. If found guilty, Umerov could face imprisonment for up to six years and disqualification from holding certain positions or engaging in certain activities for up to three years.
**Reactions**
The Ukrainian government has responded to the situation by saying that it continues to operate under Bezrukova’s leadership, despite Umerov’s decision. The US Air Force has also transported interceptors from Israel to Poland as part of its military aid to Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on the situation, stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin is afraid of negotiations and strong leaders. Putin responded by saying that he is willing to hold talks with Ukrainian officials but that they must be legitimate before any agreements can be made.
**Global Repercussions**
The tensions between Ukraine and Russia have had far-reaching consequences globally. Trade in Russian crude has stalled, and shipping costs have created a significant price gap between buyers and sellers. Uzbekistan Airways has changed its routes to avoid Russian and Belarusian airspace as a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, NATO’s Deputy Assistant Secretary-General confirmed threats against Rheinmetall’s CEO, and the European Commission is considering alternatives within the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) framework to reinstate pre-war trade rules.
**Other Developments**
A man attempted to ram the gates of Russia’s embassy in Sweden with a passenger car on January 28. Germany’s imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) continue to rise despite efforts to cut off direct shipments. A “large amount” of Russian military equipment has gone missing from the Syrian port of Tartus.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com