The Shevchenkivskyi District Court in Kyiv recently ruled in favor of Andriy Portnov, a former official in ex-President Viktor Yanukovych’s administration, in a defamation case against several news outlets, including the Kyiv Independent. The lawsuit stemmed from a story highlighting Ukrainian officials’ selective imposition of sanctions on pro-Russian politicians, with Portnov being one example. Portnov, sanctioned by the U.S. for alleged corruption, sued the author of the report and the news outlets, including Kyiv Independent, claiming defamation.
Despite the ruling, which the Kyiv Independent’s Chief Editor Olga Rudenko plans to appeal, concerns have been raised about press freedoms in Ukraine. The case reinforces worries about the country’s judiciary. Portnov, known for his litigious nature, has faced scrutiny for alleged involvement in corruption during his tenure. The ruling, considered flawed by legal experts, showcases ongoing challenges for independent media in Ukraine. Stay tuned as this story unfolds, highlighting the importance of press freedom in the country.
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