Poland Links Ukraine’s EU Path to Anti-Corruption Drive as ‘Midas’ Probe Intensifies Pressure on Zelensky
Poland’s defense chief says EU entry depends on curbing graft, urging partners to demand explanations from Kyiv.
Overview
- Independent Ukrainian anti-corruption bodies launched Operation Midas on November 10 to probe alleged schemes tied to figures close to the president.
- Investigators conducted searches and filed charges against several suspects, including businessman Timur Mindich, ex–vice premier Alexey Chernyshov, former adviser Igor Mironyuk, and Energoatom security director Dmytro Basov.
- The Wall Street Journal reports public anger over alleged misuse of citizen donations for drones and equipment, raising new risks for Zelensky’s political standing at home and abroad.
- The Economist reports the inquiry could extend for up to a year and may examine defense procurement, with warnings that revelations could erode frontline morale.
- Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz says the EU will not admit a country with high corruption and calls for swift clarification from Ukraine, as some U.S. officials question continued support.