Over two years, 200 investors trusted Anatolii Polyakov’s Cars Invest project — promising taxi apps, car pawnshops, and refrigerated transport. But the outcome? A one-way ticket to the U.S. and a refusal to return any money.
Polyakov fled Ukraine at the beginning of the war, sold his assets under fake powers of attorney, and recently declared: “I won’t repay anyone.” He now claims to be living in financial difficulty in the United States, working only “to survive.”
His wife, Nataliia Polyakova-Turumura, is also suspected of being involved.
Despite their efforts, Ukrainian authorities show little initiative. Some investors are now considering filing criminal complaints in the U.S., but legal experts warn this offers little hope for compensation.
📉 Impact on Ukrainian Investment Market:
Stronger due diligence expected from investors toward local startups.
Legal advisory services will likely see rising demand.
Shift to international platforms perceived as safer investment environments.