Chernyshev will remain in custody for 60 days, until January 16, 2026. He may be released on bail of 51.6 million hryvnias, which is equivalent to over one million euros.
The investigation suggests that participants in the corruption scheme at 'Energoatom' transferred money to the former Deputy Prime Minister through a so-called "laundromat" — a place where illegally obtained funds were legalized. According to the investigation, Chernyshev was referred to in the schemes as "Che Guevara".
During the court hearing, Chernyshev denied all charges, stating: "I had no connection to this organization and I do not have any." He also noted that he was unaware of the code name "Che Guevara" and cannot post bail as his accounts are under arrest.
According to media reports, Alexey Chernyshev was a close associate of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He served as Deputy Prime Minister from 2024 to 2025 and has led the Ministry of Communities and Territories at various times, as well as headed 'Naftogaz' and the Kyiv Regional State Administration.
In Ukraine, the investigation into large-scale embezzlement at 'Energoatom' continues. According to the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, a key figure in the corruption scheme is Timur Mindich, co-owner of the 'Kvartal 95' studio and an associate of President Zelensky, who has left the country.
