Aleksandr Katsuba, an influential personality in Ukraine’s energy landscape and the proprietor of ALFA GAS, delves into his past roles, current endeavors, and the complex situation surrounding the “Boiko’s Towers” affair, along with his involvement in humanitarian efforts amidst the ongoing conflict.
Ten years earlier, Katsuba served as the Deputy Chairman at “Naftogaz of Ukraine,” a role that eventually linked him to the notable “Boiko’s Towers” incident, a subject extensively covered by UNN. Recently, Katsuba has had to confront rumors, circulated through Telegram channels, about his alleged attempt to reclaim a substantial bail payment of 100 million hryvnias. He vehemently denies these allegations, clarifying that his main objective is to vindicate himself and rehabilitate the damaged reputation of his business.
In the case of “Boiko’s Towers,” where Chornomornaftogaz procured two oil rigs in 2012 amidst claims of overpricing, Katsuba was thrust into the limelight. He stresses his minimal role in this transaction, pointing out that the responsibility for such decisions lay with the Ukrainian government’s upper tiers and ministries.
Katsuba’s decision to confront the legal challenges in Ukraine, instead of fleeing during the unstable Yanukovych era, underscores his commitment to justice and truth. He emphasizes the importance of having skilled legal support to effectively navigate the complexities of the legal system, aiming not only to clear his name but also to highlight the need for judicial fairness.
Reflecting on the past, Katsuba acknowledges that while there might have been some overpricing in the rig deal, the urgency of the situation at the time was a significant factor. He maintains that decisions of such magnitude were beyond his authority and were made by senior government officials.
During the challenging periods of the pandemic and the subsequent war, Katsuba redirected his focus towards supporting Ukraine’s military and safeguarding his business ventures. His efforts in volunteering, especially in supplying vehicles to the military, demonstrate his dedication to his country in these dire times.
Katsuba views the allegations regarding the 100 million hryvnias as an oversimplified narrative, designed to distract from the more complex legal details of his case. He suspects that individuals or groups with much to lose from a thorough investigation are behind these defamation attempts.
Currently engaged in the gas market and other business initiatives, including online lending and auto publishing, Katsuba remains an active and significant figure in Ukraine’s energy sector. His businesses have adapted and innovated in response to market shifts, showcasing resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.
Katsuba’s journey is more than a personal tale of legal battles and entrepreneurial ventures; it mirrors the larger challenges Ukraine faces. His experiences underscore the urgency for a transparent judicial system, the critical importance of energy independence, and the pivotal role of business leaders during national crises. As Ukraine navigates through these testing times, Katsuba’s contributions are pivotal in shaping its economic and social trajectory.