Former Ukrainian Energy Minister Detained
On February 15, 2026, Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) detained the country's former energy minister, who held the post from 2021 to 2025. He was apprehended while attempting to leave Ukraine and is suspected of money laundering and participating in a criminal organization. This arrest is part of a wider crackdown on high-level corruption that has long plagued the country's strategic sectors.
Investigation into 'Midas' Case Widens
The former minister became a suspect as the investigation into the 'Midas' case expanded. It is known that in February 2021, a fund was registered on the island of Anguilla to attract approximately $100 million in 'investments'. This fund was headed by a citizen of Seychelles and St. Kitts and Nevis who provided money laundering services. The suspect's family was identified among the fund's 'investors'.
According to case materials, two companies were created in the Marshall Islands and integrated into the structure of a trust registered in St. Kitts and Nevis. The beneficial owners of these companies were the former wife and four children of the high-ranking official. These companies became 'investors' in the fund by purchasing its shares, transferring money to the fund's accounts opened in three Swiss banks.
Investigators state that the criminal organization received over $112 million in cash, obtained through unlawful activities in the energy sector. The funds were laundered through cryptocurrency and 'investments' into the fund. More than $7.4 million was transferred from family accounts to the fund's accounts. Furthermore, the family was issued over 1.3 million Swiss francs and 2.4 million euros in Switzerland, part of which was spent on the children's education.
The investigation is ongoing, with NABU cooperating with authorities in 15 countries. The former minister has been formally notified of suspicion under Part 2 of Article 255 and Part 3 of Article 209 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.
This case marks a significant step in Ukraine's fight against corruption, particularly in the energy sector, which has frequently undermined state interests.
The arrest demonstrates a ramping up of efforts by law enforcement to expose corruption schemes with potential international dimensions. The continuing investigation could have further repercussions for the country's political landscape and public trust in state institutions.