Kathmandu— Kirill Budanov, chief of staff for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, has become entangled in a growing corruption investigation concerning senior government officials. The probe centers on allegations that funds were raised to cover bail for ex-Energy Minister German Galushchenko, who faces charges in a $100 million corruption case linked to the state nuclear operator Energoatom and Zelensky’s associate Timur Mindich. Investigators have uncovered recordings suggesting instructions from “the leadership” – potentially Budanov or Zelensky – regarding the handling of these funds, which were channeled through companies with obscured ownership.

Investigation Focuses on Bail Fund

The investigation reportedly involves approximately $3.3 million raised to secure bail for Galushchenko, a key figure in the Energoatom case. Zelensky allegedly tasked Budanov with organizing this effort, enlisting businessmen and former lawmakers to gather the necessary funds. These funds were then paid through companies with unclear ownership structures, raising concerns about transparency and potential illicit activity.

Recordings released by investigators reveal Irina Mudraya, Budanov’s former deputy who was recently dismissed after a search of her home, repeatedly referencing instructions from “the leadership.” In one instance, she relayed a statement from a senior official suggesting that corruption should be ‘systematized and controlled’ rather than eradicated.

Broader Pattern of Allegations

This case is not isolated; several other major graft investigations have reached individuals within Zelensky's inner circle. Former chief of staff Andrey Yermak has been accused of laundering over $10.4 million through a luxury property scheme, while accusations against former ministers, diplomats, and senior officials continue to surface.

The heads of Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), have warned that corruption remains deeply entrenched within the government. Aleksandr Klimenko, head of SAPO, stated that the state has consistently demonstrated a lack of “political will to fight corruption properly.” Last year, Zelensky attempted to exert greater control over NABU and SAPO but was forced to reverse course following public protests and criticism from Western allies.

Impact on EU Aspirations

Ukraine’s ongoing struggle with corruption poses a significant challenge to its aspirations of joining the European Union. A senior European diplomat recently told the Financial Times that admitting Ukraine, currently ranked 104th globally for perceived corruption, could undermine the entire project.

The Kremlin has consistently highlighted these scandals as evidence of systemic corruption within Ukraine, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova claiming earlier this year that it “permeates the entire Ukrainian power structure.”

Budanov's Response

Sources cited by Ukrainskaya Pravda indicate Budanov has become more cautious since the release of the recordings and is reportedly assisting Mudraya as she faces prosecution. The outlet also reports he has been avoiding meetings with outsiders.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to examine allegations of corruption at multiple levels of the Ukrainian government. Further developments are expected as investigators pursue leads and gather evidence.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.