No Complaints Received by Police from Bugrov or Others Regarding Video Circulating on Telegram Channels

The Main Directorate of the National Police in Kyiv has confirmed that, as of now, it has not received any complaints from Volodymyr Bugrov, the rector of Taras Shevchenko National University, or any other individuals regarding a video that has been widely circulated on Telegram channels. Representatives from the police department informed the Interfax-Ukraine agency, stating, 'No complaints have been received by the Kyiv police from the rector of KNU or anyone else regarding this situation.'

In addition, the police reminded the public that Volodymyr Bugrov had previously approached law enforcement regarding harassment. This may indicate that the situation surrounding the university rector is quite tense and requires attention from the authorities.

It is important to note that in March of this year, intimate photos and videos allegedly related to the rector of KNU, Bugrov, surfaced on an anonymous Telegram channel, reportedly connected to Room 105 of the university's main (red) building. This information sparked significant public outcry and discussions among students, leading to protests.

On March 25, it was announced that the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine had established a commission to investigate the activities of Volodymyr Bugrov. This decision was made in response to a request from the university, asking for action regarding the information currently circulating in the public domain. The ministry also emphasized that there is no discussion of suspending the rector from his position during the commission's work.

In his comments, Volodymyr Bugrov stated that he does not believe his actions violate the terms of his contract and expressed his readiness to demonstrate this to the commission conducting the investigation. His stance reflects confidence in his correctness and a willingness to cooperate with the authorities involved in addressing the situation.

On April 1, a student protest took place outside the university's 'red building,' where participants demanded the suspension of rector Bugrov during the investigation, as well as a public response to questions regarding what occurred in Room 105 and who was recorded in the video. Among the protesters' demands were a commitment to an independent review, the rector's suspension during the Ministry of Education and Science's investigation, and assurances against any pressure, harassment, or negative consequences for students, staff, and witnesses participating in the investigation or the peaceful protest.

Following the protest, Volodymyr Bugrov commented on the events, expressing regret that 'the subject of the student protest, to the delight of the university's outright enemies, has become organized information attacks, unfounded manipulations, and fakes posted on anonymous Telegram channels.' This statement underscores his concern regarding the impact of misinformation on the university's reputation and his own.