Reznikov’s Removal and Alleged Corruption in Ukraine’s Defense Sector: Impact on Support for Ukraine

He pointed out that the removal of Reznikov is not a matter of no confidence, but the media is increasingly talking about possible issues of corruption in the defense sector. Pabriks believes that Zelensky took such a step because the elections in several Western countries are approaching and political voices are growing that would like to perhaps even seek reconciliation with Russia.

This is justified by the fact that, among other things, they are looking for reasons to reduce support for Ukraine. In such a situation, one of the reasons mentioned is the lack of transparency and corruption in Ukraine.

“I think this is one of the reasons why Zelenskiy is taking such steps. I don’t think that much can change in politics with the change of ministers. It is more to carry out a kind of cosmetic reform that will oppose those who want to reduce support for Ukraine,” said Pabriks.

Reznikov is not indicted, but Zelensky had to do something because there was talk for a long enough time about whether the defense procurements were at the right price and so on. “I won’t judge how justified the accusations of possible illegalities are, because I don’t know. But the president’s decision looks more like a necessity to neutralize Ukraine’s detractors, who are trying to find various arguments to reduce support for Ukraine,” said Pabriks.

It has already been reported that the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, dismissed the Minister of Defense Oleksiy Reznikov from his position on Sunday, stressing that a “new approach” is needed in the Ministry of Defense.

“Olexey Reznikov has spent 550 days in a full-scale war,” Zelensky said in his nightly televised address. “I believe that the ministry needs new approaches and a new format for interaction with both the army and society in general.”

The president has nominated the current head of the State Property Fund, Rustem Umerov, as Reznikov’s successor, expressing the hope that the parliament will support this candidacy.

Sources have said that Reznikov could be appointed as Ukraine’s ambassador to Great Britain.

2023-09-04 13:48:43
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