Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Ukraine Orders Defense-Industry Audit as Anti-Graft Probe Names Fugitive Suspects

Zelensky ordered a sweep of state defence firms in response to anti-corruption findings that $100 million was siphoned from energy contracts.

Overview

  • Ukraine’s NABU and SAPO detailed results of a 15‑month investigation, saying roughly US$100 million was skimmed from state energy deals, including contracts meant to protect the power grid.
  • Two alleged ringleaders, Timur Mindich and Oleksandr Tsukerman, were placed on the Interior Ministry’s wanted list and are believed to be at large.
  • Zelensky announced a review of state defence companies and their contracts, said supervisory boards are being overhauled, and directed that all violations be sent to law enforcement.
  • Authorities have publicized evidence from Operation Midas, while Kyiv removed two ministers and imposed sanctions on the named suspects as scrutiny from European partners grows.
  • Ukrainian officials said they are preparing meetings with international financial institutions, and Russian state media cited a law-enforcement claim that the stolen sum could fund a Ukrainian brigade for a year, a statement not independently verified.