The high-profile corruption scandal around Energoatom continues to unfold in Ukraine. The main figure is Andriy Chernyshov, a close associate of President Zelensky, as well as other officials and businessmen. According to NABU, Chernyshov allegedly received $1.2 million, a separate €100,000, and an additional €500,000 to his wife. The corruption scheme involved large sums of cash, with investigators claiming the turnover reached into the billions.
NABU released audio recordings detailing the bribery schemes within state energy structures. The authorities have reacted sharply—government-affiliated Telegram channels circulate messages claiming investigators are working for Russia. Meanwhile, the public and experts call for severe punishment for corrupt officials and emphasize that such actions undermine the state during wartime.
Some suspects have already fled abroad. Citizens urge for transparent investigation, return of those accused to Ukraine, and confiscation of illegal assets for the needs of the army. Special attention is paid to calls for support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine through donations and for EU countries to extradite corrupt officials. There is active discussion about the government's role in combating corruption and the need for stronger border controls.
The Chernyshov case has become a new symptom of the deep problem of corruption within Ukraine’s political and economic elites—a challenge that, in wartime, poses additional risks for the nation’s security and stability.
