Belarus attempts to shield Firtash from extradition to US, report says

The Belarusian government has granted fugitive Ukrainian billionaire Dmytro Firtash a diplomatic role in Vienna, allowing him to remain in Austria and evade extradition to the United States where he faces corruption charges, German broadcaster DW reported on June 27.

Firtash's position as an advisor for Belarus's permanent representation to international organizations in Vienna has been confirmed by the Higher Regional Court of Vienna.

Read also: Head of Ukrainian regional gas company linked to oligarch Firtash steps down

He is invoking his diplomatic immunity to demand the cessation of the extradition proceedings. His legal team argues that Firtash, in his capacity as an advisor for the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), holds diplomatic status and immunity. Minsk granted Firtash this role on June 29, 2021.

Read also: Former energy minister charged over contracts favoring exiled oligarch Firtash

However, the Austrian Justice Ministry advised the court that Firtash had not been correctly accredited and does not possess a valid accreditation card from the Austrian Foreign Ministry. The lower courts, taking into consideration the statement from the Ministry of Justice, did not recognize Firtash's claimed diplomatic immunity. Nevertheless, on June 14, the Higher Regional Court of Vienna returned the case to the lower court, ordering them to independently assess the legal standing of Firtash's claimed immunity.

Read also: Head of Ukrainian regional gas company linked to oligarch Firtash steps down

If the lower court acknowledges Firtash's diplomatic status, the case concerning his extradition to the United States will be put on hold for the duration of his diplomatic mandate.

We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine