The mayor of Irpin has also been suspended from his duties until March 22.
According to the media, this concerns Markushin's trip abroad from August 24 to 30, 2022. Law enforcement officials claim that the mayor allegedly traveled to Italy not to assist the military, but to see his two-year-old son.
"I left the country for a few days after receiving permission from COVA, returned, brought two drones, and saw my son. The regional police investigated this case for two months and found nothing, while the State Bureau of Investigations 'fabricated' the suspicion in two days. I believe that the case against me is politicized and commissioned by my opponents," Markushin stated in court.
He noted on Facebook that he is the sole guardian of his son, as his wife passed away a month after giving birth. According to Markushin, at the time of his departure, he had not seen the child for six months, since he was taken abroad after the conflict began in the region.
"I have the right to go see my son without any additional permits, but I knew I would return with help, so I registered officially," emphasized the mayor of Irpin.
At the same time, the prosecutor stated that Markushin did not provide any documents confirming his volunteer activities abroad.
The mayor's defense believes that the suspicion is unfounded.
"We will file an appeal and contest this unlawful decision," Markushin reacted to the arrest.