Moscow — A court in Moscow has ordered pretrial detention for Alexey Kostylev, a well-known figure in Russia’s state-aligned media sphere, after investigators accused him of large-scale fraud linked to a Defense Ministry contract for military drones. Authorities say roughly one billion rubles—almost $13 million—were misappropriated.
Kostylev was detained on February 25 and a judge remanded him in custody until April 25, court records show. The case stems from a criminal probe that began last September, initially aimed at unnamed suspects. State-aligned outlets and channels that track defense procurement have been openly reporting on the investigation.
Allegations and legal position
Prosecutors contend that companies tied to Kostylev received government payments for drone deliveries that either never happened or were massively overbilled. Investigators point to forensic accounting and bank transfers as the basis for suspicion that state funds were diverted. Court filings cited by state media list charges including embezzlement and failure to fulfill state contracts, describing the matter as “especially large-scale fraud,” which carries heavy penalties under Russian law.
Kostylev has not spoken publicly through independent channels. Outlets that support him have framed the matter as part of a wider law-enforcement review of defense contracts. His lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to reporting. The detention order gives investigators expanded powers to question suspects and seize financial records; prosecutors have not yet announced a formal indictment.
Procedure and timeline
Officials say the inquiry, opened last September, has combed through procurement documents, communications, and payment trails. Investigators have conducted forensic audits and interviewed witnesses focusing on how the drone contract was awarded and how money flowed through related companies.
The defendant is described in reporting as a media entrepreneur with close ties to pro-state information channels. That connection has amplified scrutiny—both public and political—even though court documents do not allege that editorial activities were directly involved in the alleged crimes.
Public reaction and personal circumstances
Pro-government outlets have largely given sympathetic coverage, stressing procedural protections and the presumption of innocence. Independent and opposition media, by contrast, have underscored the scale of the alleged fraud and the broader implications for oversight of military procurement.
Family statements filed in court asked judges to consider Kostylev’s medical condition and personal responsibilities when weighing custody. Supporters pointed to a serious ATV accident earlier this year that required brain surgery and left him with limited mobility; his current Telegram channel, Russkaya Zhizn (Russian Life), pleaded for him not to be jailed, saying he needs intensive care and assistance with daily tasks. Court records show judges considered these submissions but also cited risks of evidence tampering and flight—common factors in custody decisions.
Readovka’s response and ownership questions
Readovka, a Smolensk-based outlet previously associated with Kostylev,