Ukraine’s former Energy Minister, German Galushchenko, has been detained while allegedly attempting to leave the country, in a dramatic development linked to a major corruption investigation.
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) confirmed that detectives apprehended a former high-ranking official “while crossing the state border” as part of an extensive anti-corruption probe known as Operation Midas. Although NABU did not officially name the suspect, several Ukrainian media outlets identified him as Galushchenko.
Galushchenko previously served as energy minister for three years and briefly held the position of justice minister before being forced to resign last November after his name surfaced in a widening corruption scandal.
Alleged $100 Million Energy Sector Scheme
Investigators allege that several senior officials orchestrated a scheme to embezzle approximately $100 million from Ukraine’s energy sector. The investigation centers on contracts linked to Energoatom, Ukraine’s national nuclear power operator.
According to NABU and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP), officials allegedly collected kickbacks ranging from 10% to 15% of contract values. Authorities further claim that the illicit funds were laundered and transferred abroad, including to Russia.
As reported by Reuters, Galushchenko was reportedly detained on a train while attempting to leave Ukraine and is being transported to Kyiv for questioning. Border authorities had allegedly been instructed to alert investigators if he attempted to flee.
Galushchenko has denied the allegations and previously stated he would defend himself against the accusations.
Political Pressure on Zelensky’s Administration
The scandal has intensified scrutiny on President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration, which came to power pledging to root out corruption. While Zelensky himself has not been accused of wrongdoing, several high-profile figures have been implicated.
Among them is his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, who reportedly resigned after investigators searched his home. Other officials, including former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov, have also faced legal scrutiny.
The timing of the scandal has sparked outrage domestically. The alleged embezzlement occurred as Russia intensified attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure ahead of winter, placing immense strain on the country’s power supply.
EU Membership and Anti-Corruption Efforts
Ukraine has long battled systemic corruption, despite the establishment of independent anti-corruption bodies over the past decade. Demonstrating tangible progress in fighting corruption remains a key requirement for Ukraine’s ambitions to join the European Union.
Authorities say further updates will be provided as Operation Midas continues, with the case likely to remain under intense public and international scrutiny.
