Ukraine’s anti-corruption agency conducted a search on Friday at the residence of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, who is known as the “all-powerful assistant.” Following the search, Zelenskiy announced that Yermak had submitted his resignation.
In a video posted on social media platform X, Zelenskiy expressed gratitude to Yermak for consistently presenting Ukraine’s position in negotiations in the right manner. He stated, “It has always been a patriotic stance.”
“But I hope there will be no more rumors and speculations,” he added. “As for the new person in charge of the office, I will have consultations with potential leaders of the institution tomorrow.” Yermak’s residence had been raided by anti-corruption investigators prior to this.
According to reports by Reuters, as the highest-ranking aide to President Zelenskiy, Yermak plays a crucial role in coordinating military and financial aid between Ukraine and Western partners, and is responsible for peace negotiations with the United States and European allies.
Yermak confirmed that his apartment was being searched and stated he would fully cooperate. Although he has not been named as a suspect, this action comes at a critical time for Ukraine, as the country faces a serious political crisis and pressure from the United States to consider making concessions in a peace deal with Russia.
Yermak and Zelenskiy share a close relationship, with Yermak being a key figure in the President’s inner circle since the election campaign. He has been a constant companion to the President and the main point of contact between Ukraine and two consecutive U.S. administrations.
The search is related to an investigation being carried out by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO). Earlier, these agencies revealed a scandal involving kickbacks worth $100 million and money laundering at a state-owned nuclear energy company, implicating former senior officials and a former business partner of Zelenskiy.
Yermak is leading the negotiation team attempting to finalize a U.S.-backed peace agreement. The agreement includes Russian demands for Ukraine to give up territory and reduce the size of its military, among other concessions. While Yermak stated this week that “no one should expect us to give up territory,” his involvement in the scandal has raised concerns among lawmakers supporting Zelenskiy about potential negative impacts on the negotiations.
Despite Zelenskiy expressing trust in Yermak, the opposition “European Solidarity” party has called for his immediate dismissal and the formation of a new coalition government.
The commitment to fighting corruption is a key factor for Ukraine’s aspirations to join the European Union. A spokesperson for the European Commission stated that the EU will continue to closely monitor the situation.