Ukraine Accuses Zelensky Ex-Partner of $100M Energy Scheme

Ukrainian anticorruption authorities have accused Timur Mindich, a former business partner of President Volodymyr Zelensky, of masterminding a 100 million kickback scheme in the country's energy sector, prompting the resignation of two government ministers and an overhaul of state-owned enterprises amid ongoing Russian attacks on infrastructure.

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine, known as NABU, and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office announced the findings of a 15-month investigation this week. They allege that Mindich orchestrated the embezzlement from contracts with Energoatom, Ukraine's state nuclear power operator, including funds intended for defenses against Russian missile and drone strikes on power facilities. Investigators cited over 1,000 hours of wiretaps showing Mindich's influence over a network of officials who demanded commissions of 10 to 15 percent from contractors to expedite approvals and bypass regulations. The illicit funds were reportedly laundered through shell companies and distributed to Mindich and his associates. Five individuals were detained during the probe, and Energoatom's supervisory board has been dissolved, with...