Former Ukrainian MP Novynskyi has reportedly received Serbian citizenship through an expedited process, according to media reports. The Serbian government has not clarified why Novynskyi is of interest to the country, "Radio Liberty" reported.

Since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, over 300 Russian citizens, many reportedly close to the Putin regime, have also obtained Serbian citizenship through similar expedited procedures. Some of these new passport holders are Russian politicians and businessmen under Western sanctions for supporting the war, placing Serbia under close EU scrutiny. Novynskyi is reportedly living in Croatia, where he purchased a villa near Zagreb for 10.5 million euros in 2025. He is suspected of state treason, with investigators alleging he followed directives from Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church, promoted Russian narratives, and fostered pro-Russian sentiments in Ukrainian society.