Former Zelenskyy Associate Accused of Orchestrating $100 Million Energoatom Embezzlement Scheme
Ukrainian anti-corruption authorities have implicated Tymur Mindich, a former business associate of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as the alleged mastermind behind a sprawling $100 million embezzlement and kickback scheme tied to Energoatom, the state-owned nuclear power operator.
The revelations follow a months-long investigation by Ukraine’s anti-corruption watchdogs, who say Mindich coordinated a network of loyalists embedded in key positions within the country’s energy sector. These individuals allegedly pressured Energoatom contractors to pay kickbacks reportedly reaching up to 15% of contract values in exchange for bypassing bureaucratic hurdles and securing lucrative agreements.
Investigators believe the operation funneled millions through shell companies and intermediaries, forming what they described as a “high-level criminal organization.” Several top officials, including former advisers and security heads within Energoatom, are also under investigation.
Mindich once shared business interests with President Zelenskyy through past media ventures, sparking public concern about his influence within Ukraine’s most lucrative industries.
However, authorities have not linked the president to the scheme.
Following the findings, Zelenskyy swiftly distanced himself from his former partner, issuing sanctions that freeze Mindich’s assets and publicly endorsing the anti-corruption probe.
The president reiterated his administration’s commitment to rooting out corruption within strategic state enterprises.
The scandal has triggered growing political pressure, as it unfolds during a particularly fragile period for Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Investigators’ revelations have prompted calls for a comprehensive audit of state-owned enterprises, with officials warning that corruption within the nuclear sector can undermine national security especially amid ongoing wartime power shortages.
Two high-ranking officials have reportedly stepped down in connection with the broader probe, adding to public scrutiny of the government’s oversight of the energy sector.
Authorities say Mindich left Ukraine shortly before raids began on properties linked to the scheme, raising questions about whether he will face prosecution.
Law enforcement agencies have issued notices and continue searching for his whereabouts.
Despite his absence, Ukraine’s anti-corruption bodies insist that the investigation will proceed and that others involved in the kickback network will be held accountable.
The case marks one of the highest-profile corruption scandals to touch someone from Zelenskyy’s inner circle, even indirectly. Analysts say how the government responds through prosecutions, institutional reforms, and greater accountability will play a significant role in maintaining public trust and international support.
As Ukraine continues to fight for its sovereignty, the scandal underscores a parallel domestic battle: protecting national assets from corruption during one of the most critical periods in the country’s modern history.
