Arrested MP Savchenko Declares Presidential Ambition

Nadiya Savchenko, the Ukrainian MP who is currently held in custody over alleged terror plot, has announced she will run for president.

The 30-second video clip revealing her plans has been posted to the lawmaker and former pilot's Facebook page. In the video, Savchenko states she has made the decision to take action as she changes out of a vyshyvanka and into military clothing.

“When the time comes, I will become a Ukrainian presidential candidate. But I will need your decision today,” she says.

Savchenko was arrested on March 22 on various charges, including attempting to overthrow Ukraine’s constitutional order, threatening the life of the President and plotting a terrorist attack. The following day a Ukrainian court decided to place Savchenko in pre-trial detention for two months.

According to chesno.org, a website for a Ukrainian civil movement aimed at improving transparency and accountability in politics, ex-Party of Regions and ex-Opposition Bloc member Yevhen Muraiev promised to provide legal and media support to Savchenko following her arrest.

That same day the 30-second advertisement featuring Savchenko declaring her intention to run for president was broadcast on the Muraiev-owned NewsOne TV channel.

Muraiev was among 10 deputies to vote against Savchenko’s arrest.

READ MORE: UPDATED: Ukraine Arrests MP Nadiya Savchenko On Terror Charges​