Alexander Katsuba: “Boiko’s Rigs”, a Legal Battle Over 100 Million, Entrepreneurship, and Philanthropy in Wartime

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Aleksandr Katsuba, a key figure in Ukraine’s energy sector and the owner of ALFA GAS, reflects on his past and present challenges, including his controversial involvement in the “Boiko’s Towers” case and his commitment to philanthropy during wartime.

A decade ago, Katsuba held a significant position as the Deputy Chairman at “Naftogaz of Ukraine”. His journey, tied to the high-profile “Boiko’s Towers” scandal, was recently scrutinized by UNN, shedding light on his turbulent past. Accusations swirled on Telegram channels, suggesting Katsuba sought to reclaim 100 million hryvnias, which he had paid as bail. He refutes these claims, asserting that his sole aim is to clear his name and restore his tarnished business reputation.

Katsuba’s role in the “Boiko’s Towers” case, where Chornomornaftogaz purchased two oil drilling rigs in 2012 at allegedly inflated prices, placed him under the judicial microscope. He emphasizes his limited involvement in the financial aspects of the deal, overseen by higher echelons of the Ukrainian government and various ministries.

Despite the pressure and the complexity of the case, Katsuba did not flee Ukraine during the turbulent times of Yanukovych’s regime. Instead, he chose to face the legal challenges head-on, seeking competent legal representation to navigate through the judicial system. His persistence in challenging the legal proceedings is not just about clearing his name but also about exposing the flaws in the judicial process and the necessity for a fair trial.

Reflecting on the past, Katsuba questions the inflated prices of the drilling rigs and acknowledges that while there might have been overpricing, the urgency of the situation at that time played a crucial role. He stresses that decisions of such magnitude were not in his purview but were the responsibility of top government officials.

Katsuba’s fight for justice coincided with the tumultuous times of the coronavirus pandemic and the full-scale war. During this period, he shifted his focus to supporting Ukraine’s military efforts and preserving his business. His volunteering efforts, particularly in providing vehicles to the army, highlight his commitment to his country during these challenging times.

The accusations against Katsuba, particularly regarding the 100 million hryvnias, are seen by him as a simplification for public consumption, obscuring the intricate legal nuances of his case. He suspects that those who stand to lose from a genuine investigation or the emergence of real perpetrators are behind this smear campaign.

Currently, Katsuba is actively involved in the gas market and other business ventures, including online lending and automotive publishing. His companies have adapted to the changing market conditions, demonstrating resilience and innovation. Despite the war and its challenges, Katsuba remains a significant player in Ukraine’s energy sector, contributing to the country’s economic stability and growth.

Katsuba’s story is not just a personal saga of legal battles and business ventures but also a reflection of the broader challenges facing Ukraine. His experiences highlight the need for a transparent judicial system, the importance of energy independence, and the role of business leaders in times of national crisis. As Ukraine continues to navigate through these tumultuous times, figures like Katsuba play a crucial role in shaping its future, both economically and socially.