Micah Jonah
February 16, 2026
Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) has arrested the country’s former energy Minister, German Galushchenko, as he attempted to cross the state border, authorities confirmed on Saturday.
In a statement, NABU said its detectives detained the former Minister as part of an ongoing investigation known as the “Midas” case.
“Today, while crossing the state border, NABU detectives have detained the former Minister of Energy as part of the ‘Midas’ case,” the agency said, adding that investigative procedures are ongoing in line with court approvals and legal requirements.
Though NABU did not initially mention him by name, Galushchenko served as energy minister until his resignation in November 2025, following a major corruption scandal in the country’s energy sector.
According to Ukraine’s Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), the alleged scheme involved about $100 million and was reportedly orchestrated by businessman Timur Mindich, described by investigators as an ally of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Prosecutors allege that Galushchenko assisted in managing illicit financial flows within the energy sector. Contractors linked to the state-owned nuclear company Energoatom were allegedly forced to pay bribes ranging from 10 to 15 percent to avoid losing contracts or facing payment delays.
Galushchenko was among several top officials who stepped down in 2025 amid the fallout from the scandal. Ukraine’s previous two energy ministers and the president’s chief of staff also resigned over related allegations, though all have denied any wrongdoing.
The anti-corruption crackdown comes as Ukraine pushes reforms aimed at meeting conditions for membership in the European Union. Tackling entrenched corruption remains a central requirement for accession talks.
In recent weeks, authorities have also launched investigations targeting lawmakers and former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko over separate allegations.
Analysts say the latest arrest signals Kyiv’s attempt to demonstrate seriousness in fighting graft, even as the country continues to grapple with the pressures of war and economic strain.
