Zelensky's Chief of Staff Resigns Following Anti-Corruption Raid

Fri Dec 05 2025 14:43:27 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The resignation of Andriy Yermak comes amid a corruption scandal that has rocked the Ukrainian government, raising concerns over the country's stability and international negotiations.

Andriy Yermak, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff, resigned after an anti-corruption raid on his apartment in Kyiv. Although not accused of wrongdoing, Yermak's departure intensifies scrutiny on the government amid a corruption scandal that threatens negotiations with the US. Zelensky highlighted the need for unity following this turmoil and announced plans for consultations to appoint Yermak's successor as Ukraine faces challenges in negotiations with the US and strained relations with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declared that his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, is stepping down following an anti-corruption raid on his home. Yermak, a central figure in Zelensky's administration and a close adviser since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, has faced growing scrutiny amid an escalating corruption scandal, even though he has not been implicated in any illegal activities.

Recently appointed to lead vital negotiations, Yermak's resignation complicates Ukraine's diplomatic stance, especially with US President Donald Trump's administration as it seeks to mediate peace efforts. In a pointed address to the nation, Zelensky emphasized the need for unity amid these challenges, warning the public that, We risk losing everything: ourselves, Ukraine, our future.

The ongoing corruption scandal has weakened Zelensky's position domestically, with the country striving to renegotiate terms of a US-led peace plan perceived as overly favorable to Russia. Anti-corruption raids conducted by Ukraine's two main agencies, which began early on Friday, targeted Yermak's Kyiv apartment, prompting him to declare his willingness to cooperate with investigators.

Despite the turbulence, Zelensky commended Yermak for consistently advocating a patriotic approach in negotiations and announced plans to consult on Yermak's replacement this weekend. He reiterated the need to maintain internal strength as Ukrainian forces continue to defend against Russian aggression.

As Ukraine grapples with accusations of embezzlement linked to high-profile officials, including a troubling $100 million scheme involving the energy sector, the situation has raised alarms among European allies regarding Ukraine's commitment to anti-corruption reforms. With pressures escalating from multiple fronts—including calls for Yermak's resignation from various political factions and public sentiment indicating that 70% of citizens desired his ouster—the ramifications of this scandal may extend beyond domestic politics, threatening Ukraine's crucial relationships as winter approaches and the ongoing war persists.