Major Corruption Scandal in Ukraine: Former Energy Minister Detained

On February 15, 2026, Ukrainian authorities detained former Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko while he was attempting to leave the country. This arrest is part of the ongoing "Midas" investigation, which centers on a significant corruption scandal involving the state nuclear power company, Energoatom. Halushchenko, who served as energy minister from 2021 to 2025, has been charged with money laundering and participation in a criminal organization.

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The Midas case emerged from allegations of a $100 million kickback scheme involving Energoatom, where officials reportedly extorted bribes from contractors amounting to 10-15% of contract values. The investigation, led by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), has implicated several high-ranking officials and business elites, including a close associate of President Volodymyr Zelensky, Timur Mindich, who fled to Israel before he could be arrested.

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NABU's investigation revealed that Halushchenko's family allegedly received over $7.4 million in foreign accounts, with funds reportedly used for their children's education at prestigious Swiss institutions. The investigation also uncovered that more than 1.3 million Swiss francs and 2.4 million euros were transferred directly to the family. The funds were laundered through a complex offshore scheme involving a fund registered in Anguilla, with companies set up in the Marshall Islands to conceal Halushchenko's involvement.

Euromaiden Press

The Midas investigation has triggered significant political repercussions in Ukraine, leading to the resignation of Halushchenko and other officials, including Zelensky's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. The scandal has fueled public outrage and raised concerns among Ukraine's Western allies regarding ongoing corruption amid the country's fight against Russia's full-scale invasion.

Ukraine's ex-energy minister detained while attempting to leave country

Zelensky's administration, which came to power on an anti-corruption platform, has faced increasing scrutiny as the investigation unfolds. Critics argue that despite some reforms, corruption remains deeply entrenched in Ukraine's political landscape.

The Independent

NABU stated that its detectives acted in accordance with the law during Halushchenko's detention and that investigations are ongoing. The agency is cooperating with law enforcement in 15 countries to trace the money trail linked to the alleged corruption scheme. Halushchenko has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that he was not attempting to flee and that his actions were lawful.

Kyiv Independent

As the investigation continues, Halushchenko has been placed in custody for two months, with bail set at approximately $4.6 million. The case remains a focal point in Ukraine's efforts to combat corruption, which is a key requirement for the country's aspirations to join the European Union. The fallout from the Midas investigation is likely to have lasting implications for Ukraine's political landscape and its ongoing reform efforts.

Ukraine ex-energy minister held while trying to flee amid corruption probe

While many sources report on the details of the Midas investigation, discrepancies exist regarding the exact amounts involved and the specific roles of various individuals. The ongoing nature of the investigation means that further developments may clarify these details in the future.

Reuters

• “Today NABU detectives detained a former minister of energy while crossing the state border, within the framework of the 'Midas' case,” — NABU Statement

Reuters

• “The former minister of energy (2021–2025) has been exposed for money laundering and participation in a criminal organisation,” — NABU Statement

Euronews

• “defend himself in court,” — Herman Halushchenko

The Hindu

The Midas case exemplifies the challenges Ukraine faces in eradicating corruption, particularly as it seeks to align itself with European standards amid ongoing conflict and political instability.

Reuters