Agency Report –
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has been briefed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the widening corruption scandal in Kiev that has forced two ministers to step down.
“The chancellor emphasized the German government’s expectation that Ukraine will vigorously pursue the fight against corruption and further reforms, particularly in the area of the rule of law,” the German government said in a statement on Thursday.
In a post on X, Zelensky said he was grateful for Merz’s advice and would do everything in his power to strengthen the trust of Ukraine’s partners. He did not mention the corruption probe.
The corruption investigations are targeting former and current members of the government as well as prominent businessmen.
Two ministers have resigned, while Zelensky also imposed sanctions on the main suspect, his long-time business partner Tymur Mindich. Mindich has fled to Israel.
The sanctions also target the financier Olexander Zukerman.
All assets belonging to Mindich and Zukerman will be frozen in Ukraine. This primarily affects the film studio Kvartal 95, which Zelensky founded before taking office and in which Mindich holds a 50% stake, according to public data.
Zelensky is said to have transferred his shares to Mindich in 2019 before the start of his election campaign.
Zukerman rejected the allegations made against him and confirmed only that he was abroad.
The sanctions are set to remain in place for three years.
Widening anti-corruption probe
Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) are probing alleged kickbacks involving state nuclear company Energoatom.
The case centres on millions in bribes allegedly paid during the construction of protective structures meant to shield energy facilities from Russian airstrikes.
Authorities said on Tuesday that five people had been detained and seven were under investigation. The group is suspected of laundering about $100 million in bribes.
By Ulf Mauder and Andreas Stein
