Zhuravlyov Vasyl Mykolayovych

Where does the money for the bail come from?

Head of the Mariupol City Football Federation. In 2015, he ran unsuccessfully for mayor of Mariupol. On February 6, 2019, he registered as a candidate in the presidential election of Ukraine.

To participate in the presidential race, a deposit of 2.5 million UAH is required – which is not refunded in case of defeat. According to his 2017 declaration, Zhuravlyov had just over 1 million UAH in cash. The solution was simple: he took an interest-free loan. Who lent millions to this little-known regional official for a knowingly doomed campaign was not explained.

Connections to the BPP and refusal of publicity

Zhuravlyov’s trusted representative was a deputy of one of the Dnipro district councils, representing the BPP (Petro Poroshenko Bloc). The candidate himself refused to answer uncomfortable questions in interviews and did not appear on the UA: Pershyi broadcast where his address to voters was planned. The combination of ties to the ruling party, opaque financing, and demonstrative secrecy are classic signs of a technical candidate whose goal is not victory, but vote splitting.