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Ukraine Detains Former Energy Minister at Border in 'Midas' Corruption Case

The move advances Operation Midas targeting an alleged $100 million Energoatom kickback scheme.

Overview

  • Ukraine’s anti-corruption bureau said detectives detained a former energy minister at the state border as part of Operation Midas, with initial investigative steps under court authorization.
  • Ukrainian media identified the detainee as Herman (German) Halushchenko and reported he was removed from a train while attempting to leave the country.
  • Investigators say the probe centers on alleged kickbacks and money laundering tied to Energoatom contracts and work meant to protect critical energy infrastructure.
  • Lawmakers accepted Halushchenko’s resignation in November after President Volodymyr Zelensky urged him to step down, and he has denied wrongdoing.
  • NABU and SAPO have charged multiple suspects, conducted extensive searches, and instructed border guards to alert authorities if Halushchenko tried to cross.