NABU and SAP Raid Head of Ukraine’s National Bank Amid Sens Bank Investigation, Possible Resignation Looms

Searches Conducted at the National Bank of Ukraine

According to 5 канал: The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP) are currently carrying out searches targeting Andriy Pyshnyi, the head of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU). These searches are taking place both at the NBU headquarters and at the residence of one of its employees. The investigations are connected to the operations of KarpatNaftoHim and the management of Sens Bank by external parties. In both cases, a figure known as Vasyl Vesely, referred to as the overseer appointed from Bankova Street, is involved. According to testimony from the former chairman of Sens Bank's Supervisory Board, Vesely was introduced by Pyshnyi himself.

Parliament Demands Answers on Sens Bank Scandal

The Verkhovna Rada has summoned Andriy Pyshnyi to provide a report clarifying the developments related to Sens Bank. It has been revealed that 150 million hryvnias were illicitly legalized through this institution. The suspects allegedly took control of the state-owned Sens Bank, using these funds to pay bail for former Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko, who is also implicated in the Mindich case, known as the Midas operation. The circle of individuals involved includes officials from various levels, such as:

• the deputy head of the Presidential Office;
• both current and former members of parliament;
• leaders of the state bank.

So far, no arrests have been made nor formal charges announced. Investigative measures are authorized and carried out in full compliance with existing laws. NABU emphasized,

“the investigative actions are sanctioned and conducted in accordance with current legislation. Further details are withheld to protect the confidentiality of the pre-trial investigation.”

However, according to MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak, Pyshnyi may resign soon.

“It is likely that the head of the NBU, Andriy Pyshnyi, will submit his resignation shortly. Should that happen, the Verkhovna Rada could consider it as early as Monday, October 26,”

the deputy stated. If Pyshnyi steps down, First Deputy Serhiy Nikolaychuk is expected to serve as acting head and is considered the frontrunner for the permanent position.

The unfolding events surrounding Andriy Pyshnyi highlight ongoing tensions at the helm of Ukraine’s central bank, attracting considerable attention from both political circles and the public.

This case underscores the critical need for transparency and accountability within the leadership of key financial institutions. The raids linked to this financial misconduct probe point to potential systemic issues in managing state assets and the banking sector. The outcome of this investigation could significantly impact public trust in the National Bank of Ukraine and the country’s overall financial stability.

As the investigation unfolds, the implications for the National Bank and its leadership continue to grow. For a deeper understanding of the ongoing inquiries and the connections to the Sens Bank scandal, you can read more about the searches conducted at the National Bank of Ukraine.