Ex-Deputy Prime Minister Chernyshov Charged by NABU in $9 Million Laundering Scheme

Six Suspects Accused in Organized Crime Group Probe

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) have formally accused six individuals linked to an organized group that laundered over 460 million hryvnias (roughly $9 million) through a construction project in the village of Kozyn, near Kyiv. Among those charged are former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov and businessman Tymur Mindich, both identified as key figures in the case.

The group was uncovered during an operation code-named 'Midas.' In case files, Chernyshov goes by the alias 'Che Guevara' and is described as one of the organization's leaders. He was recently implicated in receiving illicit benefits in June 2025. Mindich, another ringleader labeled 'Carlson' in NABU recordings, is considered a business associate of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He reportedly left Ukraine just hours before the first searches were conducted in November 2025.

Case Details: Money Laundering and Luxury Estates

Between 2021 and 2025, the group allegedly laundered more than 460 million hryvnias. The operation involved building a cottage community on roughly 8 hectares of land, where four private residences and a separate shared spa facility were constructed. The total sum processed through the laundering mechanism equals nearly $9 million.

The charges fall under Article 209, Part 3 of Ukraine's Criminal Code, which addresses money laundering on an especially large scale. This marks the third round of charges announced in the case within a single day. Just a day earlier, former head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak-referenced under the alias R2 in the case-was also notified of suspicion. Members of the 'Dynasty' project assigned future residence owners the codes R1, R2, R3, and R4.

The investigation remains ongoing, with further details expected to emerge as authorities continue their work.

This case continues to draw public attention as it involves high-ranking officials and their alleged involvement in corruption schemes, undermining trust in state institutions.

The situation underscores the importance of fighting corruption in Ukraine, particularly in light of European integration efforts and public administration reforms. The probe could have serious consequences for those implicated and may impact the country's political landscape.

The ongoing investigations by NABU have revealed a broader pattern of alleged corruption involving high-ranking officials. In a related case, former Presidential Chief Andriy Yermak has also been charged with laundering a significant sum, further highlighting the scope of illicit activities within Ukraine's political elite. This development raises questions about the extent of organized crime's infiltration into government operations.