Ukrainian investigative journalist Mykhailo Tkach detained in Austria while on assignment
on Google
Mykhailo Tkach, head of the Ukrainska Pravda investigations team, is currently being detained in Austria, the publication announced on Oct. 8.
"The editorial office considers this detention illegal and demands his immediate release and an official explanation for the actions of the Austrian law enforcement officers," Ukrainska Pravda's editor-in-chief Sevgil Musayeva wrote in an announcement.
The acclaimed journalist was reportedly on an editorial assignment in Vienna with his colleague Yaroslav Bondarenko when he was detained by Austrian authorities. Ukrainska Pravda has not been able to contact Tkach, though he has been in touch with his lawyer. Bondarenko's whereabouts are currently unknown.
As one of Ukraine's most prominent investigative journalists, Tkach has helped expose corruption and money laundering inside President Volodymyr Zelensky's inner circle.
"We appeal to international journalistic and human rights organizations to support our colleagues and help protect their rights," wrote Musayeva.
Musayeva said that Ukrainska Pravda has contacted Ukrainian diplomats to help protect Tkach and Bondarenko and help facilitate their release.
"We have received information about the detention of Mykhailo Tkach," said Georgy Tykhy, spokesperson for Ukrainian Foreign Ministry. "The Embassy of Ukraine in Austria has already asked the Austrian side to explain the circumstances of this detention. The consul is already in contact with Austrian colleagues and has officially requested access to the detained citizen."
On Sept. 29, Tkach received the international Free Media Awards 2026 in Oslo "for his dauntless and consistent investigative wartime journalism."
This is not the first time Tkach has encountered difficulties in his reporting, including being assaulted multiple times throughout his career.
Tkach and Bondarenko were previously detained by Polish authorities while reporting on the transit of goods between Poland, Russia, and Belarus in February 2024.
