Statement from Dmitry Firtash

Описание: The accusations levelled against me in the recent public statement released by the US Department of Justice are completely absurd and unfounded. I am sure that all of these false allegations will be dismissed.

They are, and in particular the US extradition request, clearly politically motivated. Thankfully, I have the utmost confidence in the Austrian judicial system and will use all legal means to prove my innocence.

Ukraine has become the battlefield for the two biggest global players of Russia and the USA. And I have ended up in the centre of this political power play.

I appeal to everyone, including my colleagues, my partners, all of my friends and the people who are supporting me, that despite the fact that I am residing in Austria, the senior management of my group of companies, who are responsible for 100,000 employees, are in full control of the business in Ukraine. The work of the group is being well managed by a highly professional and experienced senior team.

As a Ukrainian citizen, I look forward to our forthcoming Presidential election with great anticipation.

I hope that my fellow Ukrainians will fully participate in the election and we will work together to build a stable and more prosperous country.

I will not allow for my reputation to be ruined by those who are driven by political motivations and are not interested in Ukraine and its people.

I would like to thank all the business leaders and politicians and my team for the support they have given me.

Today, Ukraine needs a united effort, our help and our support. Together, we will win this battle.