Poroshenko's Case Against Sanctions Not Considered – Court Cancels Friday Hearing

On Friday, April 2, the Supreme Court's Cassation Administrative Court did not conduct the scheduled hearing that was set to address the lawsuit brought forth by Ukrainian MP and leader of the European Solidarity party, Petro Poroshenko. This lawsuit pertains to the appeal against sanctions imposed on the politician by the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC).

The session, which was supposed to commence at 10:00 AM, was canceled due to the absence of judges. Petro Poroshenko himself announced this development during a briefing for journalists, expressing his surprise and dissatisfaction with the situation. He stated that just minutes before the hearing was set to begin, they were informed that the court would not be able to commence its proceedings. "We were told: the court is not present, the court is dissolved, and when the next hearing will take place is unknown," Poroshenko remarked.

Poroshenko's attorney, Ilya Novikov, added that on the previous day, April 1, they received a phone message regarding the cancellation of the session. However, the court's secretariat did not provide any information regarding the reasons for the cancellation or the timeline for rescheduling. "The information could mean various things: that the judge fell ill and the hearing will take place next week, or that the judge has recused themselves and the process will have to start anew, despite having been ongoing since April 2025," the attorney emphasized, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the situation.

Petro Poroshenko also stressed that his case is being considered under an expedited procedure, which mandates a decision to be made within a reasonable timeframe, at most within two months. However, as he pointed out, "a year has passed, and there is still no decision," raising concerns about the prolonged nature of the process.

The cancellation of the hearing raises questions not only about justice but also about the transparency of the judicial system in Ukraine. Poroshenko, as a former president of the country, underscores the importance of adhering to legal norms and the timely consideration of cases involving politicians and their rights.

This incident is part of a broader context in which political figures in Ukraine face legal challenges arising from sanctions and other restrictions imposed by state authorities. It is crucial for the judicial system to remain independent and effective, ensuring justice for all citizens, regardless of their political status.