Czech Fund 'Let's Help Ukraine' Accused of Embezzling Millions of Czech Crowns

The Czech Prosecutor's Office has charged the founder of the 'Let's Help Ukraine' fund with embezzling millions of Czech crowns, local media reports.

The funds were intended for Ukrainian refugees, specifically for language education. Last year, the fund received 20 million crowns (approximately 81 million rubles) from the Ministry of Education.

According to Czech television, the fund's director, Vladimir Gergel (pictured), misused these funds for personal needs. He transferred about 2 million crowns (approximately 8 million rubles) to his mother's account. He then withdrew cash amounting to 6 million crowns (around 24 million rubles) and simultaneously transferred 8 million crowns (approximately 32 million rubles) for the acquisition of an apartment.

He now faces up to ten years in prison.