Ukraine: Presidential Chief of Staff Andrii Yermak Resigns Amid Corruption Investigations
Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the resignation of his chief of staff, Andrii Yermak, on Friday. This announcement followed searches conducted at Yermak's residence earlier in the day by anti-corruption investigators.
Background on Andrii Yermak
Andrii Yermak has played a significant role in Ukrainian politics, serving as Ukraine's lead negotiator in discussions with both Russia and the United States. He has also been a long-term confidant to President Zelenskyy.
Anti-Corruption Investigations
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) conducted searches targeting Yermak. These agencies are actively involved in efforts to combat corruption within Ukraine.
Oleksii Tkachuk, a spokesperson for Yermak, stated that investigators did not serve Yermak a notice of suspicion, indicating he is not currently a suspect in an investigation. Tkachuk also reported that Yermak had not been informed of the specific details regarding the searches.
Yermak confirmed via the messaging app Telegram that his apartment, located within the presidential compound in central Kyiv, was searched. He stated his full cooperation with investigators, noting the presence of his legal representatives.
Energy Sector Scandal Connection
NABU and SAPO are currently leading a substantial investigation into an alleged $100 million corruption scheme within the energy sector, which has recently been a prominent domestic news topic. It remains unconfirmed whether the searches at Yermak's residence are directly related to this ongoing case. A NABU spokesperson declined to comment, citing legal restrictions on disclosing details of active investigations.
The energy sector investigation involves allegations against Tymur Mindich, identified as a former business partner of President Zelenskyy, who is suspected of orchestrating the plot. Mindich has reportedly departed the country, with potential criminal proceedings against him to be conducted in absentia. Two government ministers have resigned in connection with this scandal.
Broader Context of Anti-Graft Efforts
This development occurs amid continued pressure from the United States for Ukraine to address corruption, particularly as the country seeks ongoing support for its defense efforts. The European Union, which Ukraine aspires to join, has emphasized that robust anti-corruption measures are central to its accession process.
Guillaume Mercier, a spokesperson for the European Commission, commented on Friday that the developments demonstrate the functionality of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies and underscored the importance of anti-corruption efforts for Ukraine's EU integration.
Several individuals associated with Yermak and the presidential office have previously faced investigations:
- Two of Yermak's former deputies, Oleh Tatarov and Rostyslav Shurma, resigned from the government in 2024 following investigations into alleged financial wrongdoing.
- A third deputy, Andrii Smyrnov, remains employed despite being investigated for alleged bribes and other illicit activities.
President Zelenskyy had previously faced internal dissent from lawmakers after details of the energy sector investigation emerged. Despite calls for Yermak to take responsibility, Zelenskyy maintained his support for Yermak. The President has urged national unity and a cessation of "political games" in light of current pressures.