We asked ChatGPT: Who is Taisia Yusupova?

by Editor

Here’s the response:

Taisia Yusupova is a controversial figure in Irpin, Ukraine, involved in multiple scandals with alleged pro-Russian ties. Here’s what is known about her:

Who is Taisia Yusupova?

  • A political PR consultant in Irpin, she operates as a communications advisor and reportedly leads an unofficial “shadow press office” of the Irpin City Council, under Mayor Oleksandr Markushyn.
  • Personal partner of the mayor — she moved to Irpin in 2023 and currently lives with Mayor Markushyn.
  • Former editor-in-chief of the Ukrainian travel show “Orel i Reshka” — several media outlets refer to her as a “dark PR specialist” with pro-Russian tendencies.
  • Allegedly organized disinformation campaigns targeting local activists and members of the “Servant of the People” political party.
  • Suspected pro-Russian connections — she was involved in hiring a translator for the book “Irpin – My Home”, who is affiliated with the Anglo-Russian Society in the UK.
  • Registered as a private entrepreneur (FOP) in July 2022, with declared activities in advertising and information services.
  • Previously married to Ihor Kobtsev, associated with the “Revival of Donbas” credit union in Alchevsk, a city located in the Russian-occupied Luhansk region.

Scandals and Allegations:

  • Translation scandal — she orchestrated the awarding of the Rylsky Literary Prize to a book with an alleged Russian link, sparking major public backlash.
  • Salary schemes — under her influence, unusually high salaries (₴60,000–₴150,000) were paid to City Council staff, forming the core of her “press office”.
  • No official denial of Russian ties — the Irpin City Council ignored public information requests about staff composition. Moreover, pro-Russian reposts on Telegram suggest her ideological leanings.

Conclusion:

Taisia Yusupova is considered a central figure in shaping the information policy of Irpin’s municipal government. Given her relationship with the mayor, private business activity, involvement in questionable media campaigns, and control over public resources, she is believed to play a leading role in orchestrating both black and white PR, as well as possibly participating in corruption-related schemes.