(Reuters) – President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has made a commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of Ukrainian enterprises following the detention of a prominent banker, which has caused concern in the business community.
Zelenskiy, in his nightly video address, stated that he had engaged in “difficult” discussions with prominent businessmen and was determined to resolve the serious issues they were facing.
“The discussion was not easy. There are serious issues. There are indeed difficulties,” Zelenskiy said in his address.
“I have familiarised myself with all the details. And I have requested the necessary work be done to resolve all difficulties between government officials, businesses and law enforcement,” he added.
However, Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of unity during wartime and the need to focus on thwarting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which began nearly two years ago.
“During wartime, we must be united by one task, the strength of Ukraine, the power of our society, our economy,” he said.
Zelenskiy also stated that all findings would be turned over to the National Security and Defence Council, which has authority on defence policy matters.
Business owners have expressed their worries over the recent detention of Ihor Mazepa, who is accused of illegal land acquisition for the construction of luxury housing north of Kyiv. Mazepa was detained at the Polish border and his brother and other company officials were also detained.
Mazepa has spoken out about the pressure that Ukrainian businesses face, and has been critical of law enforcement agencies and judges, accusing them of abusing their powers.
(Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleksandr Kozhukhar; Editing By Bill Berkrot)
