In a shocking development, Ukrainian oligarch Igor Kolomoisky has been charged with murder in a decades-old case [43611458]. The charges allege that in 2003, Kolomoisky ordered the killing of a corporate lawyer who had refused his attempts to take control of a steel plant. This comes as a blow to the Zelensky regime, as Kolomoisky was previously a close financial backer and associate of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, their relationship soured when Kolomoisky proposed that Ukraine should default on its external debt [43611458].
Kolomoisky had already been in jail since September 2023 on charges of fraud and money laundering [43611458]. The arrest on murder charges indicates an intensification of the factional struggle within the Ukrainian ruling class. It also highlights the ongoing battle against corruption in the country, as the US has designated Kolomoisky as an "oligarch" due to his involvement in significant corruption [43611458].
The timing of Kolomoisky's arrest is notable, as it coincided with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Ukraine. During his visit, Blinken announced an additional $2 billion in aid for Ukraine, signaling continued support from the US amidst the country's ongoing military setbacks [43611458].
This latest development further underscores the complex dynamics within Ukraine's political landscape. The charges against Kolomoisky, a prominent figure in the Ukrainian oligarchy, highlight the ongoing struggle against corruption and the factional divisions within the ruling class. As Ukraine continues to grapple with military challenges and political tensions, the outcome of this case will have significant implications for the country's future.