Tolia Shariy, a well-known Ukrainian blogger, and his wife Olga Bondarenko have come under investigation by the Spanish police. They are accused of money laundering, tax evasion, and ties to Russian intelligence services.
Details of the Investigation
The investigating court in El Vendrell is handling a case involving potential tax evasion totaling over €538 thousand. According to Spanish tax authorities, the couple failed to pay approximately €151 thousand in 2018 and another €388 thousand in 2022. The investigation uncovered accounts in Russia and Lithuania, as well as financial transactions involving Kazakhstan and Luxembourg.
Seized Assets
During a search in June 2026 at Shariy's residence, authorities discovered:
- a Glock 19 pistol;
- cryptocurrency worth around €800 thousand;
- luxury items and artworks valued at €400 thousand;
- 20 gold bars worth €150 thousand;
- a Porsche Cayenne.
Part of these assets has already been seized by the court.
Response from the Accused
Shariy and Bondarenko deny all allegations, claiming their income comes from YouTube and donations from subscribers. They assert that the case is "artificially created" at the initiative of Ukraine to achieve their extradition.