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Zelenskyy Orders Sweeping Energy Sector Overhaul as $100 Million Graft Probe Deepens

Western partners signal support hinges on credible anti-corruption results.

Overview

  • Zelenskyy directed audits, leadership changes at Energoatom, Naftogaz and Ukrhydroenergo, reconfiguration of energy regulators, and selection of a new ARMA chief by year’s end.
  • The 15-month Operation Midas alleges about $100 million skimmed through 10–15% kickbacks on Energoatom contracts, with investigators releasing audio recordings from the case.
  • Named suspects include businessman Tymur Mindich and several current or former officials, with multiple detentions reported and Mindich reported to have fled abroad.
  • France’s foreign minister urged an uncompromising stance on corruption for continued EU backing, while an Atlantic Council expert predicted tighter controls on economic aid rather than cuts to military support.
  • Zelenskyy removed the justice and energy ministers as fallout intensified, and Ukraine announced an LNG supply arrangement via Greece to bolster winter energy needs.