Former Ukrainian minister accused of money laundering

A former Ukrainian energy minister has been detained in connection with a large-scale corruption scandal, Ukrainian prosecutors announced on Monday. He is suspected of money laundering and involvement in organized crime.

His name has not been released by the authorities, but he is Herman Halushchenko, who served in office from 2021 to 2025. He was detained over the weekend while attempting to leave Ukraine.

According to the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, during his tenure, the criminal group obtained more than $112 million in cash from illegal activities in the energy sector. The bureau said the findings were based on materials obtained in Ukraine and in cooperation with foreign partners.

The case is related to the so-called "Midas" scandal in the state nuclear agency. The scandal has affected high-ranking officials and business elites, including a former associate of President Volodymyr Zelensky.

As a result of the scandal, two energy ministers and the head of the presidential office resigned. All of them deny the allegations.

(reuters, est)