politics

May 3, 2026

MP urges Zelensky to fire the head of his National Security and Defense Council over new corruption leaks

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov allegedly discussed sensitive topics with a businessman charged in a corruption case

MP urges Zelensky to fire the head of his National Security and Defense Council over new corruption leaks

TL;DR

  • MP Fyodor Venislavsky urged Ukrainian President Zelensky to fire National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov.
  • The call follows media leaks ('Mindich tapes') allegedly showing Umerov in conversations with businessman Timur Mindich, accused of a $100 million graft scheme.
  • At the time of the alleged conversations, Umerov served as Ukraine's defense minister.
  • The leaks reportedly indicate discussions about approving body armor shipments from Mindich's firm and government appointments.
  • An anti-corruption council previously called for Umerov's dismissal over alleged power abuse and divulgence of state secrets.
  • Umerov was appointed head of the National Security and Defense Council shortly after leaving his ministerial position in July.
  • President Zelensky has not yet commented on the calls for Umerov's dismissal.

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