Ukraine's ex-energy minister arrested while attempting to flee country

Former Ukrainian energy minister German Galushchenko has been arrested while allegedly attempting to leave the country amid corruption allegations, reports Al Jazeera.

In a statement, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) said Galushchenko, a suspect in a corruption case codenamed “Midas,” was detained while trying to exit Ukraine secretly. He is currently in custody, and an investigation is underway under court supervision.

Galushchenko, considered close to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, faced allegations in September 2025 of illegally earning and laundering nearly $100 million abroad.

Prosecutors allege he used his influence to facilitate investment opportunities in the energy sector for Ukrainian businessman Tymur Mindich and accepted kickbacks ranging from 10% to 15% from contractors linked to state-owned power producer Energoatom.

Following the emergence of the allegations, Galushchenko resigned from his ministerial post in November 2025.

Corruption remains a major challenge for Ukraine’s administration. In 2025, several senior officials, including former prime minister Yulia Tymoshenko, also faced graft allegations. Analysts say anti-corruption reforms are critical as Ukraine seeks progress in its bid for membership in the European Union.