Kyiv petition urges president Zelenskyy to reconsider sanctions on Parimatch

Amid ongoing conflict with Russia, a significant development has emerged in Kyiv. A petition, signed by more than 25,000 individuals, has been delivered to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, urging him to reevaluate the imposed sanctions on Parimatch, a prominent gambling company.

Parimatch faced a ban for 50 years

Surpassing the required minimum signature count well in advance, the petition has caught the attention of the President, who now faces a crucial decision within the next 10 days.

Parimatch faced a ban on its operations in Ukraine for an extensive period of 50 years after an investigation revealed its involvement in business activities with Russia. However, the company vehemently denies these allegations, stating that it severed all ties with Russia in March 2022, shortly after the onset of the conflict.

Maxym Liashko, the Managing Partner of Energame, Parimatch’s management company, emphasized the patriotism of the company and its supporters. “We are Ukrainian patriots,” he declared. “Our fellow countrymen and countrywomen unequivocally agree with that. We have supported our country against Russia’s full-scale invasion from the first day and immediately moved to terminate any remaining legacy business in the aggressor country.”

Comprehensive review

Liashko further expressed confidence in Ukraine’s journey toward becoming a democratic European nation, where individuals can freely conduct business under the protection of the law. Trusting President Zelenskyy’s commitment to the rule of law and liberal democratic values, Parimatch urges a comprehensive review of the allegedly unjust sanctions imposed on them. They highlight the importance of a robust review and appeal system within the sanctions regime, acknowledging that mistakes can occur in the process.

While Ukraine remains steadfast in its determination to sanction entities and individuals that undermine the nation’s sovereignty, this petition sheds light on the complexity of implementing an effective sanctions framework. The President’s decision regarding Parimatch will not only impact the company but also influence the overall approach to sanctions during these turbulent times.