Ukraine’s Energoatom Faces Graft Allegations Amid Anti-Corruption Push

Ukrainian authorities have detained several individuals in connection with a significant graft case involving the state nuclear power company, Energoatom. The investigation, which centers around alleged kickbacks amounting to approximately $100 million (€86 million), is poised to challenge the anti-corruption stance of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

On March 12, 2024, Ukraine’s two main anti-corruption agencies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (Nabu) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (Sapo), announced that five people had been detained and seven others had been informed of their suspected roles in a “criminal organization.” This group allegedly demanded bribes in exchange for contracts involving Energoatom.

According to Nabu, the detained suspects include “a businessman – the head of the criminal organization; a former adviser to the minister of energy; the executive director of physical protection and security at Energoatom;” along with four other individuals suspected of laundering the illicit funds. The agency indicated that these individuals exploited their official connections within the ministry and the state-owned company to manipulate personnel decisions, procurement processes, and financial operations.

Nabu highlighted that approximately $100 million passed through these alleged corrupt activities, which were reportedly documented. While the names of the suspects have not been officially released, Ukrainian media reports suggest that one of them is Timur Mindich, a former business associate of President Zelenskiy and a co-owner of a television production company established before Zelenskiy’s political career began in 2019.

Mindich reportedly fled Ukraine shortly before the Nabu operation, which involved “almost all of [its] detectives,” over 70 searches across Kyiv and other regions. These searches yielded a substantial amount of documents and cash, according to the agency. Additionally, properties linked to former energy minister Herman Halushchenko, who served from 2021 to 2025, were also searched. Neither Mindich nor Halushchenko has publicly commented on the allegations.

The timing of this investigation is particularly sensitive as Energoatom currently generates approximately 60 percent of Ukraine’s electricity, crucial amid ongoing Russian missile and drone strikes targeting other power facilities. Energoatom issued a statement emphasizing that the incident has not harmed its assets or financial standing and has not impacted its operational safety or production plans.

Ukraine’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts are under increased scrutiny from Western nations that provide vital support to its economy and defense amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. President Zelenskiy underscored the need for effective action against corruption, stating, “The inevitability of punishment is essential. Integrity within Energoatom is a priority.” He asserted that all individuals involved in corrupt schemes must face legal consequences and called for collaboration between government officials and law enforcement agencies.

The president recently faced protests related to his earlier attempts to limit the independence of Nabu and Sapo, perceived by critics as an effort to shield his allies from investigations. Following public outcry and pressure from European officials, he quickly reversed these decisions.

Daria Kaleniuk, executive director of Kyiv’s Anti-Corruption Action Centre, expressed concern over Zelenskiy’s actions, stating on social media, “If there will be a new wave of attack on Nabu and Sapo, it will be a clear sign that the president decided to cover up his friends instead of supporting justice and the interests of the nation of Ukraine.”

As the investigation unfolds, the response from the Ukrainian government and its commitment to combating corruption will be closely monitored both domestically and internationally.