The Ukrainian former energy minister was arrested on Sunday, February 15 while attempting to cross the state border. His detention is linked to an energy sector-shaking corruption scandal known as “Midas”—involving more than $100 million (€84 million).

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) said its detectives detained the former minister while he was crossing the border, but did not officially name him. However, based on the circumstances, the individual appears to be German Galushchenko, who resigned last November. The bureau said the investigation is ongoing in accordance with legal procedures and that further details will be released later.

The “Midas” case is one of the largest corruption scandals in Ukraine’s energy sector. Investigators say an organised network illegally siphoned off around $100 million through kickbacks and public funds. According to the probe, the former minister may have personally benefited from the scheme. The revelations sparked particular outrage as the country was grappling with severe power outages caused by Russian attacks.

Galushchenko was among several senior officials who stepped down in 2025 after the scandal emerged. Investigators believe the network may have been orchestrated by an individual close to President Volodymyr Zelensky, although the full chain of responsibility remains under investigation.

The fight against corruption remains a key domestic and international priority for Ukraine, particularly as the country seeks to join the European Union. Rhetorically, Brussels has repeatedly stressed that strengthening the ‘rule of law’ and tackling corruption are essential conditions for progress in the accession process—although on such matters, Ukraine is often treated less harshly than certain existing EU member states.