Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has initiated a reform of the country’s energy sector following allegations of a kickback scheme valued at $100 million. This scandal, described as the most significant during his presidency, has prompted the overhaul of key state energy companies, particularly Energoatom, Ukraine’s nuclear power operator. Zelenskyy has instructed government officials to engage consistently with law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies, emphasizing that any alleged misconduct in these companies will be addressed promptly.
On Sunday, Zelenskyy called for an “urgent law” to amend the management structure of the National Energy and Utilities Regulatory Commission and announced plans to appoint new leaders for various energy institutions. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine is investigating claims that contractors for Energoatom were required to pay kickbacks ranging from 10-15% to maintain their supplier status. Reports suggest that Timur Mindich, a businessman with ties to Zelenskyy, is among those involved in the allegations.
The reforms were announced shortly before Zelenskyy traveled to Athens to finalize an agreement for importing U.S.-supplied liquefied natural gas (LNG) through Greece during the winter months. This arrangement is a response to damages inflicted on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure amid ongoing conflicts. The deal ensures the supply of LNG from December 2025 to March 2026.
In light of the ongoing corruption inquiries, Zelenskyy faces pressure to affirm Ukraine’s commitment to combating corruption, a critical factor for its aspirations to join the European Union. The scandal coincides with a budget shortfall in Ukraine, complicating negotiations for a €140 billion loan from the EU. Additionally, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has leveraged the situation to question Ukraine’s progress toward EU accession.
Many anticipate that the scope of the investigation could expand to other government sectors, while Ukrainian officials continue to acknowledge the nation’s corruption challenges and the importance of transparency in addressing them.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/16/zelenskyy-pledges-to-clean-up-ukraine-energy-sector-amid-corruption-scandal