Former Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko has been arrested while attempting to flee the country. Halushchenko, who was removed from his government post last year after being implicated in a major corruption scandal, was reportedly detained while trying to cross the border by train. Authorities have not yet disclosed his intended destination.
The arrest is linked to an alleged embezzlement scheme involving approximately $100 million, which came to light last November. The scandal involved several high-ranking government officials and has placed significant political pressure on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s administration. Halushchenko had previously resigned following a raid on the home of the President’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, although no formal charges have been filed against the President or Yermak.
Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) issued a statement confirming that a former minister was detained while attempting to cross the state border. Although the official statement did not name the individual, major Ukrainian media outlets have identified him as Halushchenko.
The arrest follows a 15-month investigation dubbed “Operation Midas.” NABU and the specialized anti-corruption prosecutor’s office allege the existence of a sophisticated network within the energy sector, specifically targeting the national nuclear company, Energoatom. The group is accused of pocketing 10% to 15% commissions from contract agreements, with large sums of cash allegedly being collected and funneled abroad, including to Russia.
Security forces were reportedly placed on high alert following intelligence that Halushchenko might attempt to flee. Following his detention, he is being transported to Kyiv for further interrogation. For his part, Halushchenko has maintained his innocence and stated he will legally defend himself against the allegations.
This case has already seen other high-profile casualties; former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov was previously arrested on charges of illicit enrichment, while businessman Timur Mindich is reported to have fled the country.
The revelation of corruption within the energy sector has sparked widespread public outrage, particularly as it comes during a harsh winter when Russia is intensifying its strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Furthermore, tackling corruption remains a non-negotiable condition for Ukraine’s ongoing bid for European Union membership.
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