Stefanyishyna explained why she stepped down as ambassador to the U.S.
Olga Stefanishyna stated that she resigned from her post as Ukraine’s ambassador to the U.S. not only because of the NABU case. The former ambassador and former deputy prime minister explained the reasons behind her decision to leave her diplomatic post.
According to her, the investigation by NABU and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) “played a significant role” in her decision, but it was not the “main” reason for her resignation.
“I made this decision due to the balance of events in my personal life, as well as the fact that active investigative actions were underway regarding my loved ones, my parents, and my inner circle—they required my constant attention. I understand that there is an investigation into certain aspects of my personal life. In fact, when it involves a large number of people around me, I cannot allow myself… It’s hard for me to find a balance,” Stefanyishyna explained.
She added that because of this, it was difficult for her to simultaneously fulfill her duties as ambassador to the U.S. and address personal matters in Ukraine.
“The job of Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States—or any job in the U.S., for that matter—is one that consumes you completely. You can’t work at 50 percent, because if you’re not giving 100 percent to something in America, it means you’re not doing anything at all… Either I’m taking care of my personal matters, organizing my life here, or I’m in the United States. That’s why I ultimately made this decision,” Stefanyishyna said.
When asked whether her decision was an attempt to resign before formal charges were filed, Stefanyishyna replied, “It’s hard to force me to do anything, and I made this decision.” She also explained that she did not want to create a situation where President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would have to comment on her dismissal amid the investigation.
“There were no questions regarding my performance as ambassador. I would have liked to continue working, but I made this decision. Because I didn’t want to create a situation where the president would be asked questions about my dismissal and would have to comment on it. I have returned to Ukraine, having concluded my diplomatic career,” the former ambassador added in an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
Olga Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s former ambassador to the U.S., stated that she currently lacks the funds to post the 6 million hryvnia bail set by the High Anti-Corruption Court. According to her, she will seek a way to comply with the court’s decision.
Earlier, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) served Stefanyishyna with a new indictment.
Recently, Zelenskyy dismissed Stefanishyna from her post as Ukraine’s ambassador to the U.S.
NABU conducted searches in connection with an investigation into Stefanyishyna’s possible illicit enrichment.
