The SSU has collected evidence against the owner of one of the largest liquor holdings in Ukraine, Yevhen Cherniak, who is suspected of financing russia’s armed aggression.

Despite the full-scale invasion, his companies continued to do business with the aggressor state.

In taxes and fees alone, the holding paid UAH 6 bln (USD 154,000) to the russian budget in 2022.

According to the investigation, the suspect’s enterprises, located in four countries of Central Asia and the South Caucasus, purchased industrial quantities of alcohol and other related products from russia.

During the searches of the companies’ offices in Ukraine, the investigators found documents and other evidence of the unlawful activities for the aggressor’s benefit.

Based on the evidence, the SSU notified Cherniak and 6 top managers of suspicion under Articles 28.2, 111-2 of the CCU (aiding the aggressor state, committed by a group upon prior conspiracy).

The decision on seizing their private and corporate property to be placed under ARMA’s management is pending.

The investigation is carried out under the procedural supervision of Kyiv Region Prosecutor’s Office.

According to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of a crime and cannot be subject to criminal punishment until their guilt is proven in line with the procedure defined by law and established by a relevant court’s verdict.