Former Ukrainian Energy Minister arrested on corruption charges: Details of the Midas case
In a significant development for the political and judicial landscape in Kyiv, the National Anti-Corruption Agency of Ukraine (NABU) announced the arrest of former Energy Minister Herman Galushenko as he attempted to leave Ukraine. This arrest comes as part of a broad investigation by authorities into major corruption cases that have rocked the country's vital energy sector.
Details of the arrest and the “Midas” case
In an official statement released on Sunday, the agency explained that its investigators had apprehended the former minister, who had resigned in November 2025, due to his suspected involvement in what has become known in the media as the "Midas Affair." Reports indicate that this case involves a complex money laundering and bribery network within the Ukrainian energy sector, where members of the network are believed to have received substantial bribes estimated at around $100 million .
The statement did not initially name Galushenko, but information regarding his tenure as energy minister and his resignation last year confirmed his identity. The agency stated that a preliminary investigation is underway in accordance with legal procedures and pledged to release further details to the public later.
General context: Corruption in wartime
This case is particularly sensitive given the current situation in Ukraine. As the country faces ongoing Russian attacks targeting its energy infrastructure, causing power outages for millions, the revelation of financial corruption on this scale has sparked widespread public outrage. Investigators suggest the former minister may have personally benefited from these funds at a time when the Ukrainian economy is struggling under the strain of war.
Furthermore, suspicions surround the involvement of other influential figures, with investigators suggesting that a figure close to President Volodymyr Zelensky may be the mastermind behind this network, putting the political leadership under considerable pressure to prove its seriousness about accountability.
The impact of corruption on European ambitions
Strategically, corruption represents the biggest obstacle to Kyiv's ambitions of joining the European Union and NATO. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine has suffered from a deeply entrenched oligarchic system, and Brussels considers eradicating corruption a prerequisite for beginning membership negotiations.
Through these high-profile arrests, the Ukrainian government seeks to reassure its Western allies and international donors that financial and military aid is being channeled appropriately and that the rule of law applies to everyone, regardless of their status. This move represents a true test of the independence of the judicial institutions and their ability to dismantle the entrenched networks of vested interests that hinder the country's progress.
