Ukrainian Presidential Chief of Staff Resigns
Andriy Yermak, Chief of Staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, has resigned from his position. The resignation occurred following an anti-corruption raid conducted at his residence by Ukrainian agencies.
Yermak's Role and Raid Details
Mr. Yermak, 54, has served as a key adviser to President Zelensky throughout the ongoing full-scale war with Russia. He was also recently tasked by President Zelensky with leading important negotiations, including those involving former US President Donald Trump in efforts to end the conflict.
Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies executed a raid on Mr. Yermak's apartment, located in Kyiv's government quarters, on Friday morning. Following the raid, Mr. Yermak stated on social media that he was offering "full co-operation" to the authorities. No accusations of wrongdoing have been made against him.
President Zelensky's Comments
In a video address to the nation, President Zelensky acknowledged Mr. Yermak's service, stating, "I'm grateful to Andriy that Ukraine's position on the negotiating track was always presented as required: it was always a patriotic position."
President Zelensky emphasized the need for unity, warning, "We risk losing everything: ourselves, Ukraine, our future." He also addressed the impending selection of a new chief of staff, announcing plans to hold consultations the following day with potential candidates for the role.
He concluded his remarks on the matter by stating, "When all the attention is focused on diplomacy and the defence in a war, inner strength is required."