Greece has rejected a Ukrainian request to extradite a former pro-Russian city councilor wanted on an international warrant for alleged fraud involving municipal real estate, ruling that he would face safety risks if returned to his war-torn country.
The 54-year-old, a former city councilor in Odesa affiliated with the pro-Moscow Party of Regions, was arrested in northeastern Halkidiki late last year while traveling to Mount Athos.
The competent judicial council ruled against his extradition, citing the ongoing security risks in Ukraine nearly four years after the Russian invasion. He is believed to remain in Greece.
According to the case file, seen by Kathimerini, the man was born in Tselina, Russia, and later settled in Odesa, where he acquired Ukrainian citizenship. In 2002, he was elected to the city council and joined the pro-Russian Party of Regions, which was linked to former Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych. He was reportedly nicknamed the “Cardinal,” possibly reflecting his senior role within the party.
Ukrainian authorities allege that between 2013 and 2019 he was involved in the misappropriation of municipal property in Odesa and accuse him of participation in a criminal organization, as well as fraud, forgery and money laundering.
In 2022, shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, he stepped down from his council seat, citing health reasons, and later traveled to Spain, where he owns property.
Following his arrest in Greece, he opposed extradition, telling the judicial council that he faced political persecution and personal danger in Ukraine. He claimed that supporters of the pro-Russian party were subject to harassment and violence and argued that detention there would expose him to heightened risks. He also said that Russian strikes on prison facilities posed a threat to inmates.
In its extradition request, Ukrainian authorities stated that any pre-trial detention and proceedings would take place in western Ukraine, away from the front lines.
The Greek prosecutor handling the case recommended rejecting the request, citing security concerns related to ongoing Russian bombardments. The Thessaloniki Appeals Council ultimately agreed and denied the extradition.