Ukraine Nuclear Energy Sector Official Arrested Over Bribery Scheme
Between June and November 2025, an official of Atomnergomash, a subsidiary of Ukraine's state-run nuclear company Energoatom, received illicit payments totaling over Hr 6.6 million ($156,000), according to an investigation.
The National Anticorruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) reported that the deputy general director was arrested for allegedly demanding kickbacks from a private company representative in exchange for ensuring timely payment for contracted work. The bribes amounted to 10% to 15% of the contract value.
Energoatom is Ukraine’s largest electricity producer and manages its four nuclear power plants, although the Zaporizhzhia plant remains under Russian occupation. Despite repeated Russian attacks on thermal and hydro plants, nuclear facilities have not been directly targeted.
Previous Corruption Allegations
- In July 2024, NABU and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) accused four members of an organized group of embezzling Hr 100 million from Energoatom.
- One suspect was extradited from Germany in November 2024.
- In September 2024, Energoatom confirmed an official was detained for accepting a bribe of Hr 100,000 ($2,400) related to resolving fuel supply issues.
"The official allegedly demanded kickbacks from the representative of a private company in exchange for ensuring the company was paid on time for completing contracted work."
Energoatom continues to face serious accusations of bribery and embezzlement.
Author's summary: Corruption scandals persist in Ukraine's nuclear sector, with high-ranking officials arrested over bribery, undermining trust in the state nuclear energy management.