Portnov's Shadow: How One Lawyer's Informal System Still Grips Ukraine

Ukraine: The Lingering Shadow of Andriy Portnov's Influence Kyiv, Ukraine – The death of lawyer Andriy Portnov, a close associate of former President Yanukovych, continues to cast a long shadow over Ukraine's law enforcement system. A recent interview on Radio NV with political scientist Ihor Reyterovych sheds light on the enduring influence of Portnov's informal network. Reyterovych notes Portnov's strong ties to current Ukrainian officials. "Portnov, as you know, was a close associate of Yanukovych and clearly maintained strong connections to the current Ukrainian government." This connection, according to Reyterovych, allowed Portnov to exert considerable influence on law enforcement agencies, even after leaving his official posts. Adding to the concern is Portnov's visit to Ukraine shortly before his death. Reports indicate meetings with top officials responsible for law enforcement. While the Ukrainian government issued a formal statement, Reyterovych points out the lack of detailed explanation from authorities regarding the nature of these meetings. The legacy of Portnov's system, according to Reyterovych, is a significant obstacle to reforming Ukraine's law enforcement. He suggests that the system's effectiveness relies on personal connections and in-person meetings, making it difficult to dismantle. The ongoing war and upcoming elections further complicate efforts to create a transparent and accountable system. The interview concludes with a call for greater transparency and accountability in Ukrainian law enforcement, a crucial step in the country's ongoing efforts to combat corruption and build a stronger democracy.