NABU in the crosshairs: who is behind the attack on the anti-corruption agency?

In late May, the temporary suspension of NABU First Deputy Director Hizo Uhlava sparked widespread resonance. The information campaign launched in the media may have been meticulously planned and, experts suggest, is linked to key figures in Ukraine's infrastructure sector and former employees of the agency itself.

Whose interests were harmed?

Political scientist Nazar Prykhodko claims in his Telegram channel that Hizo Uhlava became an obstacle to the implementation of corrupt schemes that, allegedly, generated billions in profits for their organisers. In his view, the interests of former NABU detective Andriy Kaluzhynskyi and Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov clashed in this conflict.

Prykhodko pays particular attention to the role of Maksym Shkil — a major businessman and informal media mogul. His company, Avtostrada, was an active participant in state tenders under the "Big Construction" programme and is now involved in defence projects, including fortifications.

How were the schemes structured?

According to the expert's data, Kubrakov's influence over state orders helped Shkil establish a foothold in the tender allocation system. However, NABU's scrutiny of these processes caused tension. It is alleged that Kaluzhynskyi, before leaving NABU, had been holding back investigations related to these contracts.

When Kaluzhynskyi left the agency and Kubrakov lost some of his levers of influence, there was a need to radically shift the balance of power. This is why, Prykhodko believes, the attack on Uhlava began, as he could have hindered the implementation of corrupt schemes.

What happens next?

The attempt to weaken NABU's position may be linked to a desire to take control of the agency. If the political scientist's claims are true, Uhlava's suspension is part of a strategic plan to restore influence over tender processes.

The question of transparency in state procurement and the future work of the anti-corruption bureau remains open. However, one thing is clear: the struggle for influence in Ukraine is moving to a new level, where the stakes involve billions of hryvnia and key infrastructure projects.