News|Russia-Ukraine war‘Not an easy process’: How is Ukraine, and Zelenskyy, tackling corruption?A Ukrainian lawyer specialising in graft says criminal justice is a drawn-out process but hopes change is on the way.

Kyiv, Ukraine – In late 2025, a significant corruption investigation emerged in Ukraine, focusing on the state energy sector. The probe, entitled Operation Midas, is spearheaded by Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO). It centers around allegations that senior officials and business associates connected to the president were involved in a scheme to divert substantial funds through excessive contracts and kickbacks associated with Energoatom, the state entity responsible for nuclear power plants in Ukraine.

The investigation has expanded beyond the energy sector, resulting in searches and arrests of senior officials, including the resignation of Andriy Yermak, President Zelenskyy’s chief of staff. This has impacted the president's administration, challenging his reformist image, and has raised concerns among Ukraine's Western allies who link support to progress in anticorruption reforms.

The investigations are ongoing, with NABU working on charges against high-level individuals allegedly involved in the scheme. Tetiana Shevchuka from the Anti-Corruption Action Centre in Kyiv indicated that while primary charges have been filed, significant public hearings are anticipated soon.

Charges have been made against some individuals, including Timur Mindich, who was charged in absentia. Further developments in the case are expected soon, with particular attention on German Galushchenko, the former minister of justice, who may face charges based on existing evidence.

The NABU and SAPO maintain their independence, devoid of party affiliations, allowing them to conduct their investigations impartially. However, there is pressure to expedite proceedings due to public interest.

Implications for Governance and International Relations

The situation poses challenges for President Zelenskyy, who has sought to distance himself from the scandal, emphasizing his support for the agencies conducting the investigations. The impact on Ukraine's international relations is significant, as Western partners continue to scrutinize Ukraine’s progress on anticorruption efforts amidst ongoing conflict.

The investigation illustrates persistent corruption issues in Ukraine, even in wartime, but also indicates systemic changes and a strong push for accountability.

Impact on the Public and Energy Sector

Amidst the energy challenges exacerbated by external factors, public sentiment is affected by the revelations of corruption within the energy sector. There are demands for accountability beyond political dismissals, with a focus on ensuring the integrity of those managing critical infrastructure.

Funds recovered from anticorruption cases are directed to the state budget and the military, with mechanisms in place to channel resources through plea bargains that support Ukrainian military and charitable efforts.

Note: This content has been edited for clarity and brevity.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.