Ex-Minister Halushchenko Detained at Border in 'Midas' Corruption Probe

Detention of Herman Halushchenko

According to ХВИЛЯ: Former Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko has been arrested by detectives from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) while attempting to leave the country. The arrest is part of the 'Midas' corruption investigation, which focuses on alleged embezzlement schemes at the state-owned enterprise 'Energoatom'. Halushchenko was removed from the night train #67/68 from Kyiv to Warsaw, which passes through Kovel and the border at the Yahodyn crossing point. An alert in the border control system, triggered by a travel ban, led to his detention.

Following the alert, border guards summoned NABU detectives and prosecutors from the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). Halushchenko was detained for 72 hours under Article 208 of the Criminal Procedure Code, after which a pre-trial restraint measure is to be determined.

Scandal and Consequences

Herman Halushchenko led the Ministry of Energy from April 2021 until July 2025, after which President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed him as Minister of Justice. In November 2025, Halushchenko became embroiled in a scandal concerning potential corruption schemes in the energy sector. This case highlights the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in reforming its energy sector, a key condition for international support.

• NABU detectives conducted searches at Halushchenko's property and others as part of Operation 'Midas'.
• In this case, he is referred to by the alias 'The Professor' in connection with businessman Timur Mindich.
• The government suspended Halushchenko from his duties, and the Verkhovna Rada voted for his dismissal.

According to the investigation, the ex-minister is implicated in a kickback scheme, although formal charges have not yet been served. Case materials reportedly contain wiretap recordings of a conversation between Halushchenko and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which allegedly took place after a request from businessman Mindich.

'Urgent investigative actions are ongoing, carried out in accordance with legal requirements and court sanctions. Details will follow later' - NABU press service.

As journalist Vitalii Hlahola noted, 'if not for the alert from NABU and SAPO, Halushchenko could have quietly left the territory of Ukraine.'

The detention of Herman Halushchenko underscores the persistent issue of corruption in Ukraine, particularly within state-owned enterprises. Cases involving high-ranking officials significantly impact public opinion and trust in state institutions. The next steps in the investigation and potential court rulings regarding Halushchenko will be closely watched as a signal of the Ukrainian authorities' commitment to combating corruption at the highest levels.