The sanctions were introduced under the so-called Magnitsky Act, which punishes people involved in fraud, harassment and human rights violations.
The Magnitsky Act provides for visa denials and financial sanctions.
The Ministry of Finance’s message contains personal data of Portnov, such as date and place of birth, passport numbers PU262444 and national passport CO168696.
The justification for the sanctions explains that Portnov has established extensive ties with the judicial and law enforcement apparatus of Ukraine through bribery.
“Widely known as a judicial mediator, Portnov has been deservedly accused of using his influence to buy access and make decisions in Ukrainian courts, as well as undermine reform efforts. As of 2019, Portnov has taken steps to control the Ukrainian judicial system, influencing the relevant legislation, sought to appoint loyal officials to higher judicial positions and uphold judicial decisions, “the explanation reads.
It is also indicated that in mid-2019, Portnov entered into an agreement with an official of the Ukrainian government to form the country’s highest legal institutions in his own interests and to influence the Constitutional Court of Ukraine. In addition, Portnov was implicated in an attempt to influence the Prosecutor General of Ukraine.
–
The sanctions list also includes the “Charitable Organization of the Andrey Portnov Foundation.”
Tupitsky was included in the sanctions list “for significant corruption actions, in particular, receiving a bribe while working in the Ukrainian judicial system.” The judge’s wife, Olga Tupitskaya, was also sanctioned.
It should be noted that the Constitutional Court considers Tupitsky to be the chairman, while in the statement of the US State Department he is listed as “the former head of the CCU.”
Listed individuals are prohibited from entering the United States.
–
–
