Ukraine central bank governor denies personal motive in postal service CEO dismissal

What happened

The Kyiv Independent reports that Andriy Pyshnyi, governor of Ukraine’s National Bank, denied claims of a personal conflict behind the bank’s decision to request the dismissal of Ihor Smilianskyi, CEO of Ukrposhta, the state postal service. Pyshnyi described allegations of a personal motive as "nonsense" and emphasized the decision was made through a collective, technocratic process.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure, battlefield claim or single-source assertion should be treated as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source or a named official. The National Bank announced on June 23 that Smilianskyi failed to meet the "fit-and-proper requirements" to lead a financial payment services provider, which includes Ukrposhta. The decision triggers a five-day deadline for his removal from the position. Ukrposhta is key for providing financial services such as money transfers and pension payments, especially in rural areas.

Smilianskyi responded strongly on his Telegram channel, accusing the National Bank and Pyshnyi of demanding personal loyalty and warning Pyshnyi about potential legal action, though the exact meaning of his threat remains unclear. Pyshnyi countered that the decision was unanimous by two supervisory bodies and not influenced by individual bias.

Known from the source

• Andriy Pyshnyi is governor of Ukraine’s National Bank.
• The National Bank requested the dismissal of Ihor Smilianskyi, CEO of Ukrposhta, on June 23.
• The reason cited was Smilianskyi's failure to meet 'fit-and-proper requirements' to head a financial payment services provider.
• Ukrposhta provides essential financial services, especially in rural areas.
• Two bodies, the Qualification Commission and the Supervision Committee, made the decision unanimously, according to Pyshnyi.

What remains unclear

Asked about potential consequences if Ukrposhta does not comply, including possible bans on its payment services or suspension of its license, Pyshnyi said it was "difficult to say" and that the situation would be monitored. The evolving dispute has sparked a significant media reaction in Ukraine.

What remains unclear: Confirm whether the central claim is corroborated; until then treat it as unconfirmed/hearsay. Whether the Qualification Commission and Supervision Committee have publicly confirmed their unanimous decision and detailed reasons. The specific legal and regulatory steps that follow the five-day removal deadline. Clarification on Smilianskyi’s legal threat and any official response or proceedings initiated.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Kyiv Independent. Open the source.