The FSU opposed the appointment of Podolyak and the Russian Kolobkov to the FIDE leadership

The Ukrainian Chess Federation has responded to the appointment of Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to the Office of the President, and Russian Pavel Kolobkov as vice presidents of the International Chess Federation (FIDE).

The nominations of Podolyak and Kolobkov were approved by the newly elected FIDE President Timur Turlov, who took the helm of the organization on September 26, 2026.

The Ukrainian Chess Federation stated that it had not authorized Podolyak to represent the Ukrainian federation at FIDE. The federation emphasized that he has no connection to the chess community in Ukraine.

Regarding Kolobkov, the federation noted that he cannot hold a position at FIDE because the Russian Chess Federation’s membership is currently suspended.

The Ukrainian Chess Federation demands that the appointments of both candidates be revoked. The federation also called on the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) to assess Podolyak’s actions and stated the need for a legal evaluation of his activities.

In its statement, the Ukrainian Chess Federation also called on the Ukrainian public and the media to assess the appointments of Podolyak and Kolobkov.

Source: Ukrainian Chess Federation