Ex-Crimea energy 'minister' who worked for Russia detained in Kyiv

The SBU said this in a statement seen by Ukrinform.

Immediately after the occupation of Crimea, he obtained Russian citizenship and offered his services to Russian authorities. He was later appointed by Sergey Aksyonov, the so-called "head of Crimea," to the pseudo-position of "minister of fuel and energy of the Republic of Crimea."

In that role, the suspect assisted the occupation authorities in establishing control over strategically important energy infrastructure on the peninsula.

This included the Simferopol and Sevastopol combined heat and power plants, the Tavriya thermal power plant, a network of solar and wind power stations, gas pipelines and compressor stations, as well as oil depots and terminals in Kerch and Feodosia.

For two years after his "appointment," he also attempted to integrate and re-register Crimea's energy assets under Russian legislation.

After leaving the post, he continued working in support of the Kremlin by heading several local companies in the extractive industry.

SBU officers detained him in Kyiv, where he had arrived for personal matters.

During searches at his residence, investigators found Russian passports, bank cards, and documents confirming his cooperation with Russia.

SBU investigators have served him a notice of suspicion under Part 1 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (high treason).

He is currently in custody without the right to bail and faces up to 15 years in prison with confiscation of property.

Photo: SBU