Kyiv – A former top advisor to ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly defended himself against allegations of corruption related to energy procurement, and announced he is joining the armed forces.Oleksandr Kornienko, formerly Zelenskyy’s first assistant, stated his innocence on November 25th, amidst a widening investigation into alleged inflated contracts and mismanagement within Ukraine‘s energy sector.
The allegations, surfacing in recent weeks, threaten to undermine international confidence in Ukraine’s commitment to transparency as it continues to receive substantial financial aid from Western allies.The scandal centers on accusations that officials enriched themselves through no-bid contracts and artificially inflated prices for energy supplies,crucial for a nation at war. Kornienko’s decision to volunteer for frontline duty is widely seen as an attempt to demonstrate his commitment to the country and refute claims of wrongdoing.Kornienko, in a statement released via social media, dismissed the accusations as politically motivated and lacking factual basis. He asserted his full cooperation with investigators and emphasized his dedication to serving Ukraine, stating he would “prove my honesty and integrity with actions, not just words” by enlisting in the military. He did not specify a deployment location or unit.
The investigation,led by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU),is focusing on several high-ranking officials within the Ministry of Energy and related state-owned enterprises. Reports indicate the alleged scheme involved the overpayment of hundreds of millions of hryvnias for coal and electricity.
Ukraine’s Western partners have repeatedly stressed the importance of tackling corruption as a condition for continued financial support. the European Union is currently withholding billions in aid pending further reforms and demonstrable progress in combating corruption. The unfolding scandal comes at a critical juncture,as Ukraine seeks to secure additional funding for its war effort and post-war reconstruction.
