Former Ukrainian MP Flees to EU Amid Probe into Mobilization Evasion Scheme.

Fake Employment Scheme and the Former Lawmaker

According to TSN.ua: A former Ukrainian member of parliament, who fled to the European Union in June 2022, is now implicated in a criminal case concerning a fictitious employment scheme in the Zakarpattia region. This scheme was designed to secure an illegal exemption from military mobilization. Through it, the ex-MP illicitly received approximately 700,000 hryvnias in salary, a significant portion of which was allocated for fabricated business trips, vacation pay, and sick leave.

The director of the company that orchestrated this scheme is also under suspicion. Of the total sum:

• over 120,000 hryvnias were claimed as business trip expenses;
• more than 70,000 hryvnias were paid for vacation time;
• nearly 90,000 hryvnias were designated for sick leave and other payments.

In the summer of 2025, the former MP departed abroad, taking a substantial amount of money with him.

During a search of the ex-parliamentarian's property, authorities discovered combat firearms and ammunition. Foreign law enforcement agencies have now been formally requested to notify the suspect of the charges. The company director who organized the scheme has also been served with a notice of suspicion for obstructing the lawful activities of Ukraine's Armed Forces and other military formations during the period of martial law.

Legal Charges and Broader Implications

This entire operation is classified as the large-scale embezzlement and misappropriation of funds by an organized group, committed under the conditions of martial law. Investigations are ongoing, with law enforcement taking necessary steps to hold those responsible accountable.

This case highlights the severe nature of crimes that exploit wartime conditions for personal gain. Such fraudulent employment schemes during war can damage public morale and undermine trust in state institutions. Investigating these cases is a critical step in combating corruption and illegal activities that threaten national security. The incident underscores the challenges Ukraine faces in maintaining integrity within its mobilization system during the ongoing conflict.