Military commander in Odesa arrested for extorting combat pay from soldiers

A military commander in Odesa allegedly demanded 30% of additional cash payments from subordinates for combat missions, claiming the money was needed for military unit repairs.

Investigators say he threatened those who refused to pay with fabricated job deficiencies or transfers to other units or combat zones.

Between June and December 2024, the commander collected more than 400,000 hryvnias from the soldiers.

Police arrested him after he received 41,000 hryvnias in December. Searches of his car and home uncovered money, mobile phones, and bank cards.

He faces extortion charges under Ukraine's Criminal Code and could receive up to 10 years in prison with asset confiscation.

The court placed him in detention with the possibility of posting bail.