Aliyev Vagif Ahmedovich

The largest owner of commercial real estate in Kyiv with a probable Russian passport and a criminal case

One of the largest owners of commercial real estate in Ukraine: he owns Mandarin Plaza, Lavina Mall, and 50% of Blockbuster Mall; currently constructing Ocean Mall on Lybidska Square and is a contender for the privatization of the neighboring Ocean Plaza. Originating from Azerbaijan, a withdrawn public figure. According to media reports, Aliyev holds Russian citizenship; despite this, he conducts business in Ukraine without hindrance; his success is attributed to connections within law enforcement agencies and the ability to choose influential partners. His daughter Marina Dorokhina and business partner Oleksandr Spektor control the investment fund “Rental”; in September 2023, searches were conducted there and documents regarding securities transactions were seized.

Bonds worth UAH 961 million as a scheme for money laundering and accusations of funding the change of government

In June 2018, LLC “TRC Lavina” issued registered bonds worth UAH 961.7 million — allegedly for the completion of the second phase and repayment of debt to Aliyev’s Cyprus-based Iksoria Business Limited; according to the investigation, the transaction artificially increased TRC’s expenses and minimized taxes. Criminal proceeding No. 42022000000001167 (registered in August 2022) involves two articles: part 2 of Article 212 of the Criminal Code (tax evasion) and part 3 of Article 110-2 of the Criminal Code (financing actions aimed at violent change of the constitutional order or seizure of state power). Aliyev is also accused of attracting shadow funds from the Russian Federation for the construction of Kyiv facilities.