The Ukrainian parliament today dismissed Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko, with 323 MPs voting in favour of the move, according to media reports. Euronews reports that the dramatic fall is the result of a major corruption investigation in the energy sector, where anti-corruption authorities are probing a scheme surrounding the state-owned nuclear firm Enerhoatom.

An investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office has reportedly uncovered alleged commissions and bribes worth up to 100 milionů dolarů, that may have been generated by Enerhoatom's procurement. According to the media, hundreds of hours of wiretaps were secured and raids were carried out among people close to the top energy and political leadership, including those close to the president. Businessman Tymur Mindic, who authorities say was a key figure in the chain, is also involved, according to an Al Jazeera report.

Premiérka Julija Svyrydenková As a result, she proposed to the parliament to dismiss not only Halushchenko but also the energy minister Svitlana Hrynchuk, who used to run the energy ministry and, according to critics, may also have been part of a corruption scheme. As the prime minister herself said on Telegram, both ministers have submitted their resignations „in the manner prescribed by law“.

The call for the resignation of both ministers was also mentioned by the president Volodymyr Zelenský. In a televised or video speech, he said that „the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Energy cannot remain in office, it is a matter of trust“. As reported by Euronews and other media, Zelensky added that if there are allegations, they must be properly investigated.

The political implications are significant: according to reports in The Washington Post, the whole situation is sparking debates among MPs and the public about broader changes in government. Opposition MPs are calling for a deeper cabinet overhaul and some are even questioning the stability of the Svyrydenko government.

The case is related to the so-called „Operation Midas“, as described by anti-corruption and media research: according to the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, the investigation was conducted over a long period of time and involved an organized group that was supposed to influence Enerhoatom's contracts and receive regular bribes from them. According to Al Jazeera, investigators say that commissions of between 10 and 15 per cent of the value of contracts may have passed through the system.

In addition, President Zelensky decided to remove both ministers from the National Security and Defence Council. According to NV.ua, the president issued a decree removing Halushchenko and Hrynchuk from the security body.

However, despite the retractions and resignations, the NABU investigation continues: according to media reports, the authorities are planning further action, including possible criminal charges. Political tensions remain high, and many analysts warn that the case will test Zelensky's resolve to fight corruption even during wartime.

gnews.cz - GH