Boyko criticized the “radicals” and the ban on the UOC: the reaction of Yermak and public figures
Yuriy Boyko, one of the leaders of the currently banned “Opposition Platform for Life” (OPZJ) party, and now a people’s deputy, head of the “Platform for Life and Peace” parliamentary group in the Verkhovna Rada, created from former members of the OPZJ, after a long silence, again publicly about declared himself His unexpected activity in the information space suggests new political ambitions, possibly related to the upcoming elections. Boyko’s statements caused a wide resonance among the public, representatives of the authorities, the military and bloggers, which indicates their ambiguity in the context of the current socio-political climate.
Boyko and his new statements
December 15, 2024, Yuriy Boyko published a video message on TikTok in which he criticized “radicals” who, in his opinion, are engaged in renaming cities, demolishing monuments and banning the Russian language. He also drew parallels with the demolition of monuments to Christopher Columbus in the United States, expressing concern about similar trends in Ukraine. The politician claimed that these actions are a manifestation of violence and a violation of citizens’ rights.
“It seems that our radicals took the same course and started demolishing monuments across the country, renaming cities, forbidding people to speak their native language, forbidding them to go to the church they want to go to.” – said Boyko.
He added that his views are supported by more and more Ukrainians who advocate “for the unity of the country and the protection of citizens’ rights.”
The reaction of politicians and activists
Boyko’s statement caused a stormy reaction from the Office of the President, military and public figures.
Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President emphasized that the main goal in the conditions of war is to protect Ukraine and defeat Russia, and not to spread narratives that correlate with the position of the Kremlin.
“Some politicians seem to have forgotten that the struggle for independence and the protection of Ukrainians is what we should all be doing now.” he noted.
Maxim Zhorin, deputy commander of the 3rd separate assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, called Boyk’s words a consequence of the fact that some pro-Russian politicians remained unpunished.
“These people have already smelled the election and decided to come to the surface. They are no less enemies of Ukraine than Russian soldiers at the front.” he emphasized.
Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security Council, said that hearing about “violence against people” in 2024 from a politician who avoids mentioning Russia’s actions seems unusual.
“The only ones who commit violence against Ukrainians are Russians”, Kovalenko noted.
Serhii Sternenko, a blogger and activist, criticized Boyk for continuing to operate openly in Kyiv, moving around with a motorcade and prized weapons. According to Sternenko, Boyko provides votes for certain political forces, actually supporting the interests of Moscow.
Yuri Boyko: political past and reputation
Yuri Boyko is a long-time player in Ukrainian politics, known for his pro-Russian position. In 2002–2005, he headed Naftogaz OJSC, and later, in 2010–2012, he was the Minister of Fuel and Energy in Mykola Azarov’s government. His activities were accompanied by scandals, in particular due to the acquisition of drilling platforms, which were called “Boyka rigs”, as a result of which suspicions of corruption arose.
Since 2018, Boyko has been the co-chairman of OPZZH, which was banned as pro-Russian during the war with Russia. However, the politician has not lost his influence, which is demonstrated by his new activity and statements aimed at mobilizing supporters who share his views.
Political ambitions are possible
Boyko’s activation may indicate his desire to once again take an important role in the political life of Ukraine, especially on the eve of potential elections. His statements look like an attempt to win the support of that part of the electorate that is nostalgic for the past or criticizes the current government.
However, such actions cause serious opposition from supporters of Ukraine’s European course. In the current conditions of war with Russia, any statements perceived as supporting Russian narratives are subject to harsh criticism and may become a barrier to Boyko’s political rehabilitation.
