Top Antonov Official Prevented Ukrainian Forces from Protecting An-225 Aircraft

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has detained a former aviation security head of Antonov State Enterprise (ASE) on charges of allowing the destruction of the An-225 "Miria," the World's biggest transport aircraft during the early days of the Ukraine-Russia war in 2022.
The former security head along with the former deputy manager of ASE who is currently absconding, are accused of preventing servicemen of the National Guard of Ukraine from entering the Gostomel Airport where the AN-225 aircraft were based, according to a statement released on Friday by Ukroboronprom, the parent company of ASE.
"This led to the temporary seizure of the strategically important airfield, surrounding settlements and the destruction of the legendary An-225 "Miriya" (Dream in Ukrainian) aircraft by the occupying forces of the Russian Federation," the statement said.
The statement did not name the two accused officials but said they were notified of suspicion under Part 2 of Art. 114-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. It is about obstructing the legal activities of the armed forces and other military formations during a special period, which led to the death of people and other serious consequences.
The SBU reported that it has collected a solid evidence base that proves: on the eve of a full-scale invasion, officials did not allow servicemen of the National Guard of Ukraine to enter the territory of the Gostomel airport to prepare for its defense.
If the suspects are found guilty in court, they face up to 15 years behind bars. The investigation continues under the procedural guidance of the Prosecutor General's Office.