Investigators are looking into an alleged large-scale corruption scheme in the energy industry
Ukrainian Justice Minister German Galushchenko has been suspended as investigators pursue an anti-corruption probe that may reach the highest levels of government.
Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko announced the decision on Wednesday, following a sweeping operation by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) targeting was described as a “high-level criminal organization” that allegedly profited from contracts involving the state-owned nuclear energy company Energoatom.
Galushchenko, who previously served as energy minister before being replaced by his deputy in a government reshuffle, called his suspension a “civilized” step and said he was preparing his legal defense.
Ukrainian media reported that the investigation centers on Timur Mindich, a close associate and former business partner of Vladimir Zelensky, who allegedly fled Ukraine just hours before his home was searched by NABU agents.
According to NABU, Energoatom officials and contractors were forced to pay kickbacks for state contracts. The operation has so far resulted in formal charges against seven individuals, who were not named. Among the suspects are an individual dubbed “Carlson” – whom the media identified as Mindich – the ring’s bookkeeper, two energy officials, and intermediaries involved in managing the payments.
Mindich has been described in the Ukrainian press as “Zelensky’s wallet” and previously a key figure in the network of oligarch Igor Kolomoysky, the Ukrainian leader’s former backer who is currently facing criminal prosecution. Mindich’s corporate interests reportedly rapidly expanded during Zelensky’s tenure, particularly in the energy and weapons production sectors.
Opposition lawmakers have demanded the resignation of the entire Sviridenko cabinet, warning that the scandal could jeopardize Ukraine’s access to Western financial aid.
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