People's deputy from the "OPZH" party, Viktor Medvedchuk, was handed a new charge of treason and aiding the activities of a terrorist organization.
This is reported by the Security Service of Ukraine.
According to the investigation, these are actions aimed at undermining Ukraine's energy independence.
He is accused of organizing the supply of coal from the self-proclaimed DPR and LPR in 2014.
"In particular, after Russia
seized a part of Donbass, Ukraine found itself on the brink of an energy crisis. Therefore, it was decided to purchase coal on the world market, in particular in South Africa. However, Russia planned to disrupt the implementation of these contracts and not allow Ukraine to strengthen its own energy independence. Therefore, with the mediation of Medvedchuk, a conspiracy took place with the highest officials of Ukraine, who, using the powers of the National Bank and law enforcement agencies, created artificial obstacles for the supply of coal from South Africa," the message says.
The SBU emphasizes that the investigation has "a huge amount of evidence" confirming the crime. In addition, the Ukrainian special services have released audio recordings of conversations that should confirm the existence of the "coal scheme" and the Russian government's interest in it.
The department believes that part of the funds received for coal went to finance the militias of Donbass, as deliveries were coordinated with them as well. In total, about 7,5 million dollars were spent on these goals.
Now, Putin's godfather faces from 12 years in prison to life imprisonment.
