Ukraine’s agriculture minister implicated in corruption investigation | Global News

Ukraine’s Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky is under scrutiny by the country’s anti-corruption agency in connection with an investigation into the illegal acquisition of state-owned land valued at approximately $7 million, according to reports from Ukrainian media.

Solsky, who took office in March 2022 and has been overseeing the grain industry during the conflict with Russia, responded to the allegations by stating that they relate to his time as a lawyer in a dispute between state-owned enterprises and individuals in 2017-2018. He expressed willingness to cooperate with authorities to establish the truth, emphasizing that all relevant information is available to law enforcement and is being reviewed by the courts.

The National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine disclosed that it had uncovered a scheme involving a current minister illegally obtaining state-owned land worth 291 million hryvnia. While Solsky was not explicitly named in the statement, it mentioned that the suspect was the former chairman of the parliamentary agrarian committee, a position he held before assuming his current role.

If confirmed, Solsky would be the first government minister under President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to be implicated in a corruption case. The news comes amid speculation about a potential government reshuffle, adding to the political uncertainty in Ukraine.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges of corruption in the country and underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in government operations. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the political landscape in Ukraine.