Kyiv – Ukrainian Member of Parliament Yuriy Koryavchenkov, better known by his stage name “Yuzik” from his time with the Kvartal 95 production studio, traveled to Spain shortly after appearing for questioning with the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), according to a report by Ukrainska Pravda. Koryavchenkov, a member of the ruling Servant of the People party, stated he was taking a vacation.
The trip comes amid scrutiny surrounding alleged illicit payments to members of parliament, a practice known as “envelope” payments. Koryavchenkov’s departure raises questions about the timing, given the ongoing investigation. The details emerged from a broader investigation by Ukrainska Pravda into Koryavchenkov’s activities and assets abroad.
NABU Questioning and Border Crossing
Sources within Ukrainian law enforcement, speaking on condition of anonymity to Ukrainska Pravda, confirmed that Koryavchenkov was questioned by NABU investigators on March 13th. The focus of the questioning reportedly centered on the alleged scheme involving cash payments to Servant of the People lawmakers.
The following day, March 14th, Koryavchenkov crossed the Ukrainian-Polish border at the Krakovets checkpoint in his personal vehicle, according to border records reviewed by Ukrainska Pravda. He then continued on to Spain, specifically the Costa Brava region, where his family has resided since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
“On Vacation”: Koryavchenkov’s Explanation
When contacted by Ukrainska Pravda journalist Mykhailo Tkach, Koryavchenkov confirmed he was in Spain but maintained he was simply on a personal vacation, paid for with his own funds. “I am on vacation at my own expense. It’s legal,” he reportedly told Tkach. He declined to comment further on the NABU questioning, stating, “I can’t say anything. I don’t comment… Ask NABU.”
Koryavchenkov also disclosed that his wife had purchased an apartment in Spain, located in the suburbs of Barcelona. Still, he was unable to provide details regarding the size or purchase price of the property, stating that all relevant information would be included in his official asset declaration. He similarly could not specify his wife’s current employment or place of work.
Inconsistent Timeline and Family Visits
The parliamentarian’s account of his travel to Spain appeared somewhat inconsistent when questioned about the frequency of his visits to notice his family. Koryavchenkov initially struggled to recall how often he had traveled to Spain, including whether he had been with his family during the Modern Year holiday. He later acknowledged visiting his family in January, February, and March, including a seven-day “business trip” in February.
The timing of these visits, coupled with the NABU questioning, has drawn attention from investigators and raised questions about the nature of his activities while abroad.
The “Envelope” Payments Investigation
The investigation into Koryavchenkov’s travel and finances is linked to a broader probe into alleged illicit payments made to members of the Servant of the People party. According to sources within Ukrainian law enforcement, the payments were allegedly distributed from the office of Yuriy Kiselyov, a prominent MP and businessman with close ties to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
In December 2023, reports emerged that several lawmakers may have received supplemental income in cash, bypassing official channels. Ukrainska Pravda reported at the time that four MPs were already under suspicion, with Koryavchenkov identified as a fifth person of interest. His subsequent departure from Ukraine fueled speculation about his potential involvement.
The investigation remains ongoing, and NABU has not yet publicly commented on the specifics of the case or Koryavchenkov’s role. The bureau is expected to continue gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses as it seeks to determine the extent of the alleged scheme and hold those responsible accountable.
The next step in the investigation is expected to be a review of Koryavchenkov’s asset declaration, which will be made public in accordance with Ukrainian law. This declaration may provide further insight into his financial holdings and potential sources of income.
This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
