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Why Ukraine’s backers are selling defense chief’s exit as a victory on September 5, 2023 at 9:18 pm

Published

3 years ago

September 5, 2023

Kyiv’s backers say Zelensky’s ousting of Oleski Reznikov is a sign that Ukraine views the fight against corruption as a necessary part of its war to push out Russia’s invading forces.

And they are softening blows against Reznikov, pointing out that the minister was not directly implicated in any of the corruption scandals, and is reportedly being considered for a senior diplomatic posting.

“There’s no indication Reznikov had a problem with corruption, he had a problem with the ministry,” William Taylor, the vice president of the Russia, Ukraine program at the U.S. Institute of Peace, said at an international conference in Tbilisi, Georgia on Monday.

“It has to be clear that there is no tolerance for corruption, it has to be clear this is part of a broader effort…the anticorruption institutions in Ukraine are now succeeding.”

Taylor added that he was exchanging messages with Reznikov Monday. “He says his wife is very happy that he’s not in that same job. But he also has great confidence in Minister [Rustem] Umerov,” Taylor said, referring to Zelensky’s replacement pick.

Taylor was speaking at a conference rallying support for Ukraine and other victims of Russian aggression, titled “Defeating Putinism,” where his sentiments were widely shared.

But critics are likely to seize on the Ukrainian government shakeup as another example of what they say is endemic corruption, which underscores their opposition to military and financial support to the country.

Lawmakers in Washington are considering a request from President Biden for $24 billion in aid for Ukraine, part of a $40 billion supplemental budget request. A small but vocal group of Republican lawmakers oppose aid for Ukraine, spurring some concern in Europe about ongoing American support for Kyiv.

“People who are dead set against helping Ukraine are going to do what they always do, they’re going to say, ‘Oh, this just shows that Ukraine hasn’t changed,” said Tom Malinowski, a former Democratic congressman from New Jersey, and now a visiting fellow with the McCain Institute, one of the co-sponsors of the conference.

“But in fact, it shows just how much Ukraine has changed. Five or 10 years ago, the idea that a defense minister would be fired because something bad happened on his watch, even though he himself wasn’t responsible for it, would be unbelievable.”

Zelensky’s announcement on Sunday that he would be replacing Reznikov came after months of speculation about Reznikov’s future.

Reznikov outlasted a potential firing in February, after an investigation in January revealed that the Ministry of Defense was overpaying for the purchase of food at between two and three times its normal price. A deputy defense minister and a procurement officer were reportedly arrested connected to the food scandal.

And then in April, an investigation by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty found more price gouging for food provisions.

Further, The New York Times reported in June that Ukraine had paid contractors hundreds of millions of dollars in weapons that were not delivered. Some of that money was clawed back, the Times reported.

Reznikov said in July he would take steps to address corruption over the procurement of food in his ministry.

But last month, an investigation by the Ukrainian publication ZN.UA revealed that the ministry had overpaid for more than 200,000 light-weight coats, and that were deemed unfit to protect soldiers for winter. Ukraine paid $20 million to import the coats from Turkey, and ZN.UA reported that the ministry overpaid by three-times the actual price.

“In ideal conditions, there is no place for corruption in highly developed and democratic state. Unfortunately we’re living not in an ideal world,” Alexander Shulga, charge d’affaires of the Ukrainian Embassy in Georgia, said on a panel at the conference.

“In such circumstances for Ukrainians, state of war, with zero tolerance to corruption and with fighting against corruption in Ukraine, all these steps are essential for our future victory over Russian Federation.”

Kurt Volker, Distinguished Fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis and former U.S. Ambassador to NATO, said that it was not Reznikov’s “job to micromanage the ministry procurement process. People below him are in charge of that.”

Reznikov’s firing is “many things at once,” he added. It’s Zelensky demonstrating that he’s taking accountability, that he’s paying attention to corruption issues and willing to make changes.

“It’s a chance for Reznikov to do something else after 18 months leading the Ministry of Defense in wartime,” he added.

Rebecca Harms, a German politician who served as a member of parliament for the European Union, described the corruption scandals in the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense as deadly serious, but echoed the view that Reznikov’s dismissal signaled steps towards accountability.

“It is a good sign that even in this horrid war Ukrainian journalists are doing their job. And it is another good sign that the president draws the right conclusions,” she said.

“If the scandals around procurement would not lead to consequences for the leadership in the Ministry this would become a burden for the brave men and women who are risking their lives for their country.”

She added that it’s also important for Zelensky to signal to Ukraine’s international supporters that “war is not an excuse for neither mismanagement or corruption.”

Zelensky said Sunday that he had decided to replace Reznikov because the ministry “needs new approaches and other formats of interaction with both the military and society at large.”

He nominated Umerov, a Ukrainian parliamentarian member of the political party “Voice”, and who is from the minority community of Crimean-Tatar, Muslims.

“The fact that Ukraine has a Jewish president who appointed an ethnic minority Muslim defense minister, tells you a lot about what Ukraine is. This is a patriotic country, but one in which patriotism isn’t based on ethnicity or religion. It’s based on an idea. It’s based on democracy,” Malinowski, the former Democratic congressman, said.

Reznikov is reportedly being considered to serve as ambassador to the United Kingdom, replacing the previous ambassador, Vadym Prystaiko, who was fired by Zelensky in July.

The president’s office did not give a reason for Prystaiko’s dismissal at the time, but that came after the former ambassador gave an interview where he said Zelensky’s criticism of western supporters at the NATO Summit was not “healthy.”

Volker, of CEPA, said that Reznikov’s reported consideration for the London diplomatic posting shows Zelensky still holds him in his confidence.

“Offering him another position shows they are happy with him,” Volker said.

Disclosure: The author had her travel and accommodation paid for by the conference, which was sponsored by The McCain Institute, The George W. Bush Institute and the Economic Policy Research Center.

TBILISI, Georgia — Ukraine’s strongest supporters are rallying around Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decision to remove the country’s war-time defense minister after a series of corruption scandals have plagued the ministry. Kyiv’s backers say Zelensky’s ousting of Oleski Reznikov is a sign that Ukraine views the fight against corruption as a necessary part of its…

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GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT RETURNS FOR ITS 5TH EDITION AT THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT – HOUSE OF LORDS, PALACE OF WESTMINSTER

Published

1 week ago

May 16, 2026

Bolanle Media Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Theme: “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation”

London, United Kingdom — The Global Sustainability Summit (GSS) is officially back for its landmark 5th Edition, continuing its legacy as one of the leading international platforms driving sustainable development, climate action, ethical investment, innovation, and global collaboration.

Convened annually at the prestigious British Parliament, House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, by Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto, the Summit has, over the last four years, successfully fostered international dialogue and partnerships that have contributed to the advancement of global sustainability goals, the establishment of sustainability-focused ministries, departments and policy structures across national and subnational governments, and the attraction of major investors into sustainable development projects, corporations and emerging economies.

This year’s summit, themed “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation,” will explore how emerging technologies, responsible leadership, sustainable finance, innovation, and global partnerships can shape a more inclusive, resilient and environmentally conscious future.

The 5th Edition promises to be the most impactful yet, bringing together world leaders, policymakers, diplomats, investors, academics, innovators, climate experts and youth leaders from across the globe to discuss actionable solutions toward achieving a sustainable and equitable future.

Among the distinguished speakers, delegates and honorees already lined up for the Summit are:

• His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq — Executive Governor of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum

• His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu — Executive Governor of Cross River State, Nigeria

• Ambassador Patricia Espinosa Cantellano — Former Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Former Foreign Minister of Mexico

• Lord Marvin Rees, Baron Rees of Easton OBE — Member of the House of Lords, United Kingdom

• Hon. Neema K. Lugangira — Secretary-General of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Brussels and Former Member of Parliament

• Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah — President of the Republic of Namibia

• His Excellency Nangolo Mbumba — Former President of Namibia

• Former President of Tanzania

• Her Excellency Ambassador Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq — First Lady of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairperson of Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum

• Your Excellency Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, PhD, CON — Executive Governor of Katsina State and Chairman of the Northwest Governors Forum, Nigeria

• Hon. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma — Governor of Khomas Region, Namibia

• H.E. Mr. Veiccoh Nghiwete — High Commissioner of the Republic of Namibia to the United Kingdom

• Her Excellency Ms. Macenje “Che Che” Mazoka — High Commissioner of Zambia to the United Kingdom

• Ms. Danielle Newman — Partner Lead, ICT, World Economic Forum

• Leanne Elliott Young — Co-founder, Institute of Digital Fashion & CommuneEast

• Ms. Chloe Russell — Producer & Presenter, Art, Science and Nature

• Professor Marie-Claire Cordonier Segger — University of Cambridge & University of Waterloo

• Dr. Alexandra R. Harrington — IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL)

• Professor Payam Akhavan — Massey College, University of Toronto

• Mr. Mallai C. E. Sathya — President, Dravida Vetri Kazhagam and International Movement for Tamil Culture Asia

The Summit will feature high-level panel discussions, strategic investment conversations, sustainability awards, policy dialogues, innovation showcases, youth engagement sessions and international networking opportunities focused on climate resilience, ethical financing, food-water-energy sustainability, circular economy, artificial intelligence, diplomacy and sustainable development.

Speaking ahead of the Summit, Convener Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto noted:

“As the world rapidly evolves through artificial intelligence and technological innovation, we must ensure that sustainability remains people-centered, environmentally responsible and economically inclusive. The Global Sustainability Summit continues to serve as a bridge connecting governments, institutions, innovators and investors to accelerate practical sustainability solutions globally. Our fifth edition is not only a celebration of progress made over the years, but also a renewed call for global collaboration and actionable impact toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and Net Zero ambitions.”

The Global Sustainability Summit continues to position itself as a catalyst for transformative partnerships and sustainable global progress, reinforcing the urgent need for collective action toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

More announcements regarding additional speakers, partners and summit activities will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

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US May Completely Cut Income Tax Due to Tariff Revenue

Published

6 months ago

November 30, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

President Donald Trump says the United States might one day get rid of federal income tax because of money the government collects from tariffs on imported goods. Tariffs are extra taxes the U.S. puts on products that come from other countries.

What Trump Is Saying

Trump has said that tariff money could become so large that it might allow the government to cut income taxes “almost completely.” He has also talked about possibly phasing out income tax over the next few years if tariff money keeps going up.

How Taxes Work Now

Right now, the federal government gets much more money from income taxes than from tariffs. Income taxes bring in trillions of dollars each year, while tariffs bring in only a small part of that total. Because of this gap, experts say tariffs would need to grow by many times to replace income tax money.

Questions From Experts

Many economists and tax experts doubt that tariffs alone could pay for the whole federal budget. They warn that very high tariffs could make many imported goods more expensive for shoppers in the United States. This could hit lower- and middle‑income families hardest, because they spend a big share of their money on everyday items.

What Congress Must Do

The president can change some tariffs, but only Congress can change or end the federal income tax. That means any real plan to remove income tax would need new laws passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. So far, there is no detailed law or full budget plan on this idea.

What It Means Right Now

For now, Trump’s comments are a proposal, not a change in the law. People and businesses still have to pay federal income tax under the current rules. The debate over using tariffs instead of income taxes is likely to continue among lawmakers, experts, and voters.

News

Epstein Files to Be Declassified After Trump Order

Published

6 months ago

November 20, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing federal agencies to declassify all government files related to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier whose death in 2019 continues to fuel controversy and speculation.

The order, signed Wednesday at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, instructs the FBI, Department of Justice, and intelligence agencies to release documents detailing Epstein’s network, finances, and alleged connections to high-profile figures. Trump described the move as “a step toward transparency and public trust,” promising that no names would be shielded from scrutiny.

“This information belongs to the American people,” Trump said in a televised statement. “For too long, powerful interests have tried to bury the truth. That ends now.”

U.S. intelligence officials confirmed that preparations for the release are already underway. According to sources familiar with the process, the first batch of documents is expected to be made public within the next 30 days, with additional releases scheduled over several months.

Reactions poured in across the political spectrum. Supporters praised the decision as a bold act of accountability, while critics alleged it was politically motivated, timed to draw attention during a volatile election season. Civil rights advocates, meanwhile, emphasized caution, warning that some records could expose private victims or ongoing legal matters.

The Epstein case, which implicated figures in politics, business, and entertainment, remains one of the most talked-about scandals of the past decade. Epstein’s connections to influential individuals—including politicians, royals, and executives—have long sparked speculation about the extent of his operations and who may have been involved.

Former federal prosecutor Lauren Fields said the release could mark a turning point in public discourse surrounding government transparency. “Regardless of political stance, this declassification has the potential to reshape how Americans view power and accountability,” Fields noted.

Officials say redactions may still occur to protect sensitive intelligence or personal information, but the intent is a near-complete disclosure. For years, critics of the government’s handling of Epstein’s case have accused agencies of concealing evidence or shielding elites from exposure. Trump’s order promises to change that narrative.

As anticipation builds, journalists, legal analysts, and online commentators are preparing for what could be one of the most consequential information releases in recent history.