Ex-economy minister, allegedly on the run, found in hospital abroad

“I’m receiving medical treatment and I’m also on vacation since early June,” Danylyshyn told Kyiv Post without identifying his whereabouts.

He evaded the answer to the question whether he plans to appeal for political asylum abroad.

He dismissed the allegations of gross corruption, saying he welcomes the new regime’s efforts to make order in state procurements sector.

Comment

The ex-minister was charged with denting the state budget for $750,000 while procuring materials and equipment for the construction of the Boryspil airport via a one-participant tender. In addition, he is accused of procuring gasoline for the army at overstated prices in 2008-2009, inflicting a $1.75 million loss to the budget.

Aug. 10, Danylyshyn was put of Ukraine’s police wanted list due to his failure to report for questioning.

Last week, Ukraine requested Interpol to track down its runaway minister.

The BYuT bloc of which Danylyshyn is a member say they have no knowledge where the minister is.