Galushchenko's Testimony Before the Investigative Committee
Former Energy Minister Herman Galushchenko addressed his alleged involvement in the 'Midas' case and other accusations during a hearing of the Verkhovna Rada's Temporary Investigative Commission (TIC). He confirmed meeting Timur Mindich around 2017-2018. Galushchenko also stated that he maintained constant communication with the President throughout the war, especially during periods of mass shelling.
Furthermore, Galushchenko indicated he knew Ihor Mironiuk from his time working at the Ministry of Justice. He could not specify who owned a house linked to [former Minister of Internal Affairs Arsen] Avakov, and he denied allegations that it belonged to the former justice minister. Galushchenko explained that this house was available on the open rental market, was constantly leased out, and was occupied by other people.
'Energoatom' Operations and New Financial Models
Galushchenko also commented on the operations of the state company 'Energoatom,' noting that in 2021, the company began generating over 6 gigawatts of capacity. In February 2022, 15 nuclear power units were operational. He acknowledged that 'Energoatom was indeed a loss-making company' and claimed he changed its financial operating model, which allowed for a reduction in tariffs for the population.
"This was a normal political decision," Galushchenko emphasized.He added that if not for the full-scale war and the loss of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, such a tariff would have been maintained. These statements highlight the immense pressure on Ukraine's energy infrastructure since Russia's invasion.
Herman Galushchenko's statements during the TIC hearing underscore the critical importance of investigations into Ukraine's energy sector and state-owned enterprise management. The context of his comments related to 'Energoatom' illustrates the severe challenges the country has faced during the war, particularly in an energy sector where lowering household costs became a vital issue amid economic instability. The 'Midas' case investigation could also have significant implications for Ukraine's political landscape, demanding thorough analysis and vigilance from both the public and the state.