On September 12, Dr. Oleg Maltsev, a renowned Ukrainian scientist with international recognition, was arrested by Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) on charges of organizing illegal paramilitary formations. The arrest has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the motives behind the accusations, suggesting they may be politically motivated. As details surrounding the case continue to unfold, network users have rallied online, launching the #FreeUkrainianScientist campaign to support Dr. Oleg Maltsev.
Authorities allege that Maltsev used the scientific NGOs under his leadership to form underground paramilitary groups.
They were also supposed to attack the Defense Forces from the rear if the occupiers approached the port city Odesa. However, supporters of the scientist, including notable figures in academia, have cast doubt on the charges, pointing to his significant contributions to scientific research and his role in promoting Ukraine’s academic reputation globally.
Seizure of Weapons Raises Questions
During the operation, authorities seized a significant amount of weapons and tactical equipment, fueling the allegations. However, experts from the legal team clarified that the weapons had been officially registered and were reportedly used for research purposes, notably in Maltsev’s work on the book ‘Shooter with the Orange Stock‘. The book delves into Urban Tactical Shooting (UTS), providing context for why weapons were in his possession.
Critics of the investigation pointed out the absence of specialized equipment typically associated with paramilitary operations. Independent military analysts questioned the strength of the evidence, with one stating, “If these groups did operate, where are the instruments of their work?”
Arrest Tied to Controversial New Book?
Speculation surrounding the arrest intensified when newspaper Leader Spirit News suggested a link between Maltsev’s detention and his latest book, ‘Strike in the Deadliest Manner Possible: Talking About War Crimes’. Co-authored with Professor Harvey Wolf Kushner, a U.S. expert on international terrorism, the book explores war crimes, using historical examples and contemporary cases from the war in Ukraine. This suggests that the arrest may have been designed to suppress the release of the book, which could shed light on sensitive issues.
Public and Academic Community Rallies Behind Oleg Maltsev
The arrest has provoked strong reactions from prominent scholars and journalists around the world, who have questioned the charges and expressed solidarity with Maltsev. Jerome Krase, Professor Emeritus at Brooklyn College, firmly denounced the allegations, stating, “The idea that he would be in any way supportive of the criminal activities of Russia in Ukraine or anywhere else in the world is for me totally absurd. Everything I’ve read and every conversation I’ve had with him points to his staunch opposition to such activities.”
Maxim Lepskiy, a professor at Zaporizhzhia National University, expressed disbelief in the betrayal charges, emphasizing that Maltsev has played an active role in organizing conferences and fostering international cooperation during Ukraine’s ongoing war.
“I personally do not believe in academician Oleg Maltsev’s betrayal and look forward to his prompt return to his scientific and research endeavors!,” Lepskiy noted.
Lucien-Samir Oulahbib, a French sociologist and political scientist, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that “Oleg Maltsev has never – even in private – spoken about anything that would suggest he supports the Russian invasion“.
Criticism of the Legal Process
Kim Kanevsky, a recipient of the Honored Journalist of Ukraine title, granted by a Presidential Decree, criticized partiality in the case, underscoring that the presumption of innocence remains a cornerstone of Ukraine’s justice system. “Even those with journalistic credentials should not publicly declare someone a criminal outside of court proceedings,” Kanevsky remarked, adding that it is irresponsible for anyone, including journalists, to label someone without a fair trial.
Social Media Campaign #FreeUkrainianScientist
In a show of solidarity, Facebook users have been publishing posts that highlight Dr. Maltsev’s contributions to Ukraine’s international scientific prestige.
Many of these users have rallied around the hashtag #FreeUkrainianScientist, demanding the scientist’s release and criticizing the charges as politically motivated. The campaign has garnered attention, with many questioning the motives behind the arrest.
The Jewish community has also weighed in on the issue, with the Jewish Review publishing an article titled ‘The Maltsev Case: Arrest And Harassment Of A Jewish Scientist In Ukraine’. The article condemned the harassment Maltsev has faced and highlighted his importance as a Jewish figure in Ukraine’s scientific circles.
