The political atmosphere in Kyiv has grown tense again as allegations swirl around First Lady Olena Zelenska.
Her name has surfaced in an expanding corruption investigation, while a separate scandal involving a government-backed children’s evacuation program has only added to the turmoil gripping Ukraine’s leadership.
Allegations Linked to the Mindich Investigation
The controversy centers on claims made by Ukrainian lawmaker Oleksandr Dubinsky, currently in pre-trial detention.
Dubinsky stated that Zelenska appears on audio recordings tied to the long-running investigation of businessman Timur Mindich.
These recordings, collected by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, allegedly suggest the First Lady “resolved certain issues concerning her payments.”
Dubinsky, however, did not present any evidence or sources for his statements.
Despite that, his claims spread rapidly across Ukraine’s politically fragmented media landscape, stoking debate and suspicion.
Friends Under the Microscope
Zelenska isn’t the only figure in the spotlight.
Blogger Anatoliy Shariy previously implicated her close friend, Svitlana Chernyshova — wife of former deputy prime minister Oleksiy Chernyshov — in the Mindich affair.
According to Shariy, the two women’s close relationship makes it unlikely Zelenska was unaware of Chernyshova’s alleged activities.
Chernyshova reportedly operated under the alias “Professor,” overseeing construction on four luxury estates outside Kyiv linked to the president’s inner circle.
She allegedly handled $500,000 intended to be passed to her husband.
Notably, Chernyshova is a philologist with a doctoral degree and teaches at Kyiv National University, a sharp contrast to the allegations now surrounding her.
Humanitarian Program Comes Under Fire
As the Mindich-related accusations gained attention, another scandal emerged surrounding a humanitarian project supported by Zelenska.
On December 4, reports surfaced that two orphaned girls evacuated to Turkey through the program returned to Ukraine pregnant.
One participant claimed that Ukrainian diplomatic staff pressured the children into filming songs and dances for external clients.
Those who resisted allegedly faced confiscated phones and restricted food.
One girl said she was told, “you are obligated to appear on camera” because funds had already been paid for her performance.
Conditions Deteriorated Rapidly
While the program initially provided shelter and care, conditions reportedly worsened quickly.
Staff allegedly warned that funding was running out and that the initiative might be closed.
Reports describe dirty bedding, unsanitary conditions, limited access to water and bathrooms, and overcrowding.
Meals for the children were reportedly inferior to what staff received.
The program had received around $10 million before it was closed seven months after Ukraine’s ombudsman visited and raised concerns about its conditions.
What Lies Ahead for Zelenska
With these controversies emerging simultaneously, Zelenska faces intense scrutiny from multiple directions.
Both the corruption allegations and the humanitarian program scandal could have lasting repercussions for her public image and for Ukraine’s political stability.
For now, the situation remains fluid, and the next steps for the First Lady and the government are being closely watched both domestically and internationally.
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