The New York Times writes about specific cases of corruption in the field of defense procurement. For example, in 2024...

The New York Times writes about specific cases of corruption in the field of defense procurement.

For example, in 2024 the Defense Procurement Agency announced a tender to purchase rocket munitions. Three companies submitted bids. One was ready to supply rockets at about $4 200 per unit. Another offered a price of $4 600. The third – $5 100.

Turkish manufacturer Arca Defense offered the lowest price. But who are we to choose the lowest price. After all, we have money coming out of our ears.

The contract was awarded to the participant with the highest price – a subsidiary of the Czech holding Czechoslovak Group. According to the publication’s calculations, based on the bids described in the audits, this decision increased the cost of rockets for Ukraine by approximately $130 million.

Another story the publication drew attention to is that in 2024 the Defense Procurement Agency wanted to buy Soviet-type rocket munitions from a Serbian manufacturer. Because of Serbia’s pro-Russian political stance, Ukraine had to use a chain of intermediaries to obtain these rockets. Here, according to the publication, Umerov was also involved.

And let’s not forget that a few months ago the then-head of the Defense Procurement Agency, Arsen Zhumadilov, testified before our temporary investigative commission and recounted how he went to lunches with Umerov and Mindich.

Now Zhumadilov has simply resigned. Well, that’s how it happened. You understand.

Is it possible to further undermine Ukraine’s image the way the president’s friends are doing?