Father of MP hires US lobbyists to discuss Ukrainian corruption

Father of "Servant of the People" MP hires US lobbyists to discuss Ukrainian corruption

Serhiy Tarasov, a well-known agribusinessman from Kirovohrad region, has found himself at the centre of a scandal, sparking widespread discussion both in Ukraine and abroad.

Contract with lobbyists

Tarasov, who has been placed on the wanted list on charges of fraud, money laundering and illegal weapons handling, signed a contract with a US lobbying firm. The deal was worth $54,000.

Lobbyists' tasks

The lobbyists' goal is to present their version of events to US officials and the media. They are to portray Ukraine as a country where the authorities allegedly persecute private business and turn a blind eye to corruption.

The irony of the situation

The situation takes a particularly interesting turn, given that Tarasov himself is a figure in a criminal case. He is accused of possible illegal land seizure.

Link to politics

Oleh Tarasov, Serhiy Tarasov's son, is a People's Deputy from the "Servant of the People" party. He holds a seat on the Verkhovna Rada's agriculture committee, which raises questions about the influence of the family business on his political career.

This case demonstrates how closely intertwined business, politics and international connections can be, causing a public outcry and raising the issue of transparency in the work of state bodies.