Former Tymoshenko administration faces charges over 'misused' carbon funds
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Ukraine's state prosecutor has launched a criminal case relating to the alleged misuse by the previous Julia Tymoshenko government of about £190m received for selling carbon quotas.
The prosecutor's office said that 2.3 billion hryvnias, received in 2009 for selling carbon emission rights under the Kyoto agreement, had been misused by the former cabinet and the finance ministry. "A criminal case for violation of budget legislation and abuse of authority was launched on 28 April," a statement said. It did not mention Ms Tymoshenko by name. The action had caused "serious consequences for Ukraine's state interests".
Prime Minister Mykola Azarov accused the Tymoshenko government of massive misuse of budget funds, including money received for selling carbon quotas to Japan. He suggested much of the money had funded Ms Tymoshenko's unsuccessful election campaign against President Viktor Yanukovich.
Ms Tymoshenko, who lost a bitterly fought run-off in February, denied Mr Azarov's charges. "I am even happy that today Azarov is preparing a criminal action against me. Come closer and then we'll see who wins," she said.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments