House arrest for Ukrainian millionaire suspected of treason | Abroad

Medvedchuk is one of the richest Ukrainians with an estimated wealth of more than EUR 500 million. He is also seen as Russia’s main political ally, saying President Vladimir Putin is godfather to his youngest daughter.

This outspokenly pro-Russian attitude makes Medvedchuk a controversial figure in his homeland. Ukraine is at odds with Russia over the annexation of the Crimean peninsula and Russian support for armed separatists in the east of the country.

Secret information

Authorities say the politician passed on classified information to Russia in 2020. Prosecutors accuse him of treason and an attempt to “plunder national wealth” in Crimea. Medvedchuk himself says that the authorities are trying to silence him because of his criticism of the policies of the Kiev government.

The politician was told during an 8-hour session that he will be under house arrest until the beginning of July. He must also hand in his passport. He embraced his supporters and announced that he would continue to fight to get the “illegal charges” off the table.

Meanwhile, nationalist demonstrators gathered outside the court. They chanted slogans such as “Medvedchuk is an extension of the Kremlin.” The Russian government has already indicated that it is following the case with great interest and that there are no “political motives” behind the allegations.

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