Ukrainian Prime Minister Announces Suspension of Justice Minister Following Major Corruption Scandal

SadaNews - Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko has announced the suspension of Justice Minister German Galushchenko, who previously held the energy portfolio, amid a major corruption scandal shaking the country's energy sector.

Svyrydenko explained that the suspension of the minister's duties came after an extraordinary government meeting today, following accusations from the public prosecutor of obtaining "personal benefits" from businessman Timur Mendyts, the key ally of President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is accused of orchestrating a scheme that led to the embezzlement of $100 million in the energy sector.

The Prime Minister stated in a release that, by government decision, the position of the Ministry of Justice has been assigned to European Integration Minister Lyudmyla Sukhaik.

For his part, the suspended minister commented on the government's decision, stating that it is a civilized approach and added that he would defend himself in court.

Galushchenko is one of several officials suspected in an extensive corruption investigation involving energy infrastructure that has been damaged due to Russian strikes, for which a significant amount of funds were allocated for repairs.

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau stated that it is investigating alleged bribery involving some officials at the Ukrainian energy company, in cooperation with the prosecution.

Authorities announced yesterday, Tuesday, that they arrested 5 individuals in connection with the electricity-related corruption case, pledging to conduct extensive investigations and refer the results to the relevant law enforcement authorities.

This investigation comes at a time when Ukraine is facing a severe energy crisis due to Russian airstrikes that have caused widespread power outages across the country as winter approaches.

Source: Agencies