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

Published: Monday, February 16, 2026 at 8:05 am

Former Ukrainian Energy Minister Detained in Bribery Probe

Kyiv, Ukraine – Former Ukrainian Energy Minister, German Galushchenko, was detained on Sunday while attempting to leave the country, according to an announcement made Monday by Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU). While the NABU statement did not explicitly name Galushchenko, it identified the suspect as the former energy minister who served from 2021 to 2025.

The arrest is linked to Operation Midas, an ongoing investigation into a large-scale bribery scheme within Ukraine's energy sector. NABU investigators uncovered the scheme in November, alleging a criminal organization involving current and former government officials and business figures. The organization is accused of influencing strategic state-owned enterprises, particularly Energoatom, to secure unlawful benefits and launder money.

Investigators claim the scheme involved kickbacks from Energoatom contractors, ranging from 10% to 15% of contract value, to prevent payment blocks or loss of supplier status. The investigation initially led to the arrest of five individuals, with allegations against a total of seven.

During Galushchenko's tenure, the criminal organization is alleged to have received over $112 million from illegal activities in the energy sector. Transactions were reportedly facilitated through a trusted intermediary known as "Rocket." Approximately $7.4 million of the funds were transferred to accounts allegedly controlled by Galushchenko's family. An additional $1.7 million in Swiss francs and $2.8 million in euros were paid out in cash and transferred directly to the family in Switzerland.

NABU alleges that a portion of the funds was used for the education of Galushchenko's children at prestigious institutions in Switzerland and deposited into the account of his former wife. The remaining funds were placed in a deposit, generating additional income for the family.

The allegations against Galushchenko come as President Volodymyr Zelensky has made combating corruption a key priority, particularly as Ukraine seeks to join the European Union.

BNN's Perspective: This arrest underscores the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in its fight against corruption. While the allegations are serious, it's important to remember that these are accusations, and due process must be followed. The investigation's progress will be a crucial test of Ukraine's commitment to transparency and the rule of law, which is essential for its future integration with Europe.

Keywords: Ukrainian Energy Minister, German Galushchenko, Corruption, Bribery, NABU, Operation Midas, Energoatom, Zelensky, Ukraine, Arrest, Money Laundering, Kickbacks, Switzerland, European Union

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