Germany reacts to corruption scandal in Ukraine
Photo: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (Getty Images)
The German government continues to trust Ukraine amid the corruption scandal in the energy sector, while closely monitoring the situation, said government spokesperson Stephan Cornelius, according to DW.
According to him, Germany "remains in the closest and most trusting contact" with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and continues to stand by Ukraine, "especially in situations like this."
"We will now observe how this specific case develops. And, if necessary, we may have to take action regarding this matter," Cornelius stated.
He added that Germany currently trusts the Ukrainian government to handle the issue internally, as well as the country’s anti-corruption agencies to uncover the case and bring it to a logical conclusion.
Cornelius also noted that during the upcoming German-Ukrainian intergovernmental consultations later this year, the issue of corruption is not on the agenda and is not planned for discussion.
Corruption scandal
Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office have exposed a criminal organization operating within the energy sector.
According to investigators, top Ukrainian officials were involved in the scheme. In particular, recordings released by NABU feature Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko.
Members of the organization allegedly demanded bribes from Energoatom’s contractors and operated an office that laundered illicit funds.
Law enforcement officials determined that around $100 million was funneled through this money-laundering center. The money could have been taken by, among others, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Unity Oleksii Chernyshov.
The investigation also found that businessman Tymur Mindich may have coordinated the operation. He reportedly left Ukraine a few days ago and, according to the State Border Guard Service, was allowed to exit legally.
Courts have already imposed pretrial measures on four suspects in the case.
The corruption scandal has already led to major personnel changes. Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko and Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk have both resigned.
On November 11, Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced that the government had dissolved Energoatom’s supervisory board, promising a new composition soon. The main goal, she said, is to reset the company’s leadership and launch a full audit.
Additionally, the Cabinet suspended Energoatom Vice President Jakob Hartmut from his position.
