Energoatom

Operation “Midas” and Energoatom

NAEK “Energoatom” is a state company managing four nuclear power plants in Ukraine and is the largest electricity producer in the country. In November 2025, the NABU published the results of a 15-month investigation, including over 1000 hours of audio recordings. The investigation documented the activities of a “high-level criminal organization” which systematically demanded kickbacks from Energoatom suppliers amounting to 10% to 15% of contract values through the “barrier” scheme—blocking payments to those who refused to pay.

Four Ministers, “Rocket” and the “Che Guevara” Bribe

Overall, four ministers from different government compositions are implicated in the case. NABU documented the delivery of $1.2 million and nearly €100,000 in cash to a former Deputy Prime Minister, known as “Che Guevara.” “Rocket” — former Deputy Head of the State Property Fund of Ukraine and assistant to the sanctioned deputy Derkach — effectively controlled all of Energoatom’s procurements through subordinate officials. Amid the scandal, the Parliament dismissed Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko and Energy Minister Hryntchuk. Searches were conducted at Energoatom offices and personally at Halushchenko’s residence.

“Yuzhenerhobud”: 10 Years Under Investigation — 3.5 Billion in Contracts

Private Joint-Stock Company “Yuzhenerhobud” is one of the largest contractors of Energoatom and has been under investigation for over 10 years for involvement in tender schemes and nearly 2 years under bankruptcy proceedings. Despite this, during 2024-2025 the company secured contracts worth over 3.5 billion UAH. Separately, the branch director was detained in Germany and extradited in connection with a scheme involving a nuclear storage facility valued at 100 million UAH; the deputy branch director was charged for systematic bribes from contractors totaling 1.67 million UAH.