Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the suspension on Wednesday, following revelations from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) linking multiple officials to illicit payments within the energy sector.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, NABU released audio recordings in which Mr. Galushchenko’s voice was allegedly heard in conversation with some of the suspects. The ministry confirmed that “investigative actions” were underway but did not specify whether the minister himself was formally accused.
Galushchenko, who previously served as Energy Minister, said he supported the government’s decision, calling it “a civilized and appropriate scenario.”
A $100 Million Scandal in the Midst of Blackouts
Authorities charged seven individuals in connection with the kickback scheme, which allegedly siphoned tens of millions of dollars from energy contracts. The accusations have inflamed public anger as the country continues to face daily power outages due to sustained Russian strikes on energy infrastructure.
For Ukrainians enduring harsh blackouts before winter, reports of corruption within the very sector struggling to maintain supply have struck a raw nerve.
Galushchenko’s Response and Legal Defense
In a post on Facebook, Mr. Galushchenko said he would “defend himself in the legal arena and prove [his] position.” He did not elaborate on the details of the probe but maintained that due process must be followed.
The suspension, while temporary, underscores the Zelensky government’s sensitivity to perceptions of misconduct within its senior ranks — particularly as Western allies continue to tie financial assistance to Kyiv’s anti-corruption benchmarks.
Anti-Corruption Reforms Under Pressure
Ukraine has made significant legislative strides toward meeting EU accession requirements, including empowering NABU and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO).
However, recurring scandals — particularly within defense and energy sectors — threaten to erode public trust and international goodwill. Political analysts say the Galushchenko episode may become a litmus test for Kyiv’s ability to investigate its own elite transparently, even during wartime.
