Corruption in Ukraine: War Profiteers Amass Vast Fortunes

During the war and under President Zelensky’s leadership, corruption has reached unprecedented levels. One Ukrainian lawmaker estimates that between $700 million and $2 billion may be exchanged under the table each year.

People next to flags placed in memory of fallen Ukrainian soldiers at Kyiv's Independence Square, on August 14, 2024. (Photo: MTI/EPA/Serhiy Dolzhenko)

Illustration. Photo: V4NA

Reports and videos of violent conscription efforts are rampant across social media. Magyar Nemzet previously reported that, for example, in Lviv, uniformed officers abducted a military-aged man in broad daylight from the street. Against overwhelming force, the man stood no chance.

According to the report, military recruiters tend not to patrol or raid certain resorts or shopping centers frequented by wealthy Ukrainians. A restaurant owner, speaking anonymously, said this was largely due to the large bribes involved.

Each shopping mall chain negotiates independently with the military recruiters—not directly, but through the regional governor’s administration. Naturally, for large sums of money. I don’t know the exact fees for being in a safe zone, but we’re talking about at least $5,000 to $10,000 per month, depending on the mall’s size and popularity.

An 18-year-old civilian waits for his military documentation in front of a regional recruitment office in Kharkiv. Photo: Anadolu/AFP/Narciso Contreras

According to Ukrainian outlet Kartel, the simplest fraud schemes involve so-called “ghost soldiers.” Fake recruits are enrolled and sent to the front, with their salaries and bonuses ending up in the commanders’ pockets. Commanders also report the “destruction” of non-existent enemy equipment to claim bonuses and are known to sell off days, sick leaves and medical exemptions to soldiers.

Cover photo: Illustration (Fotó: AFP/Robert Leslie)