Galushchenko Challenges Witness Accounts
Former Energy Minister Herman Galushchenko is contesting witness testimony against him during a hearing at the Appeals Chamber of Ukraine's High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC). His defense team argues that the evidence presented contains no direct accusations against their client. Galushchenko himself asserts that the witnesses are biased and denies any specific charges have been formally substantiated.
Five witnesses were questioned during the HACC Appeals Chamber session. One witness, Kudrytskyi, provided his testimony on November 7, 2025, several days before the operation in question began. Another witness, Oleksandr Vizir, gave his account the day after Galushchenko was formally notified of suspicion. It is noted that Vizir was dismissed with Galushchenko's involvement and later found employment at Cherkasyoblenergo.
Allegations of Witness Bias
Herman Galushchenko has pointed to the witnesses' potential prejudice, stating:
“One witness is Mr. Kudrytskyi, who gave testimony several days before the operation itself began... In reality, both these individuals are under suspicion themselves. While in my position, I had issues with both of them. In truth, this testimony is false.”
He further noted that Vizir is the subject of an ongoing criminal case in court and suggested that after being notified of suspicion, Vizir developed a motive to recount events that do not correspond with reality.
Galushchenko's lawyer emphasized that none of the witnesses provide concrete allegations.
“Witness Vizir says: I saw Ihor Myroniuk and Herman Galushchenko in the office. Did he see them? Yes. But what did he do? Nothing. Witness Kudrytskyi, I will quote a phrase: I had heard that Energoatom takes bribes... This is testimony of hearsay, which cannot be taken into account,”the lawyer remarked. Thus, Galushchenko continues to challenge the testimony, deeming it unreliable and prejudiced.
This case is part of broader, high-profile anti-corruption efforts in Ukraine that are closely watched by international partners. The outcome of this appeal could influence the trajectory of similar cases against former officials. Continued investigations into senior figures like Galushchenko underscore the ongoing challenge of corruption within the state sector and are critical for public trust in Ukraine's judicial institutions.