Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksi Reznikov has assured that he will continue to lead reforms within the portfolio he heads during the war, after speculation that he may step down following corruption scandals made public in recent weeks.
«We are still on the move. Thank you all for your support and constructive criticism. We have drawn conclusions. We continue with reforms. Even during the war. We are strengthening defense, working for victory – all for Ukraine!» he wrote on his Facebook page.
Facing criticism over corruption and bribery cases within the Defense Ministry, which has left dozens of senior officials dismissed and a deputy minister detained, Reznikov said a few days ago that he would step aside if asked to do so by Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky.
«No official is here forever. Not a single one. The decision to be defense minister or not is made by one person, the commander-in-chief and president of Ukraine Volodimir Zelenski, in accordance with the Constitution,» Reznikov said.
«He submits a proposal for appointment, and the Verkhovna Rada (Parliament) appoints. Therefore, only by the decision of the President of Ukraine, I will make certain decisions, and then I will do what the head of state suggests to me,» he added.
A few weeks ago, Zelenski announced the dismissal of dozens of Defense Ministry officials over indications of cost overruns in the purchase of food and other goods intended for the Ukrainian Army. The operation has been extended to other agencies, such as the Ministry of Finance, whose headquarters were searched.
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
