Ukraine‘s Presidential Chief of Staff Andrii Yermak Dismissed Amid Corruption Concerns
KYIV, Ukraine – Andrii Yermak, chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr zelenskyy, has been dismissed from his position, officials confirmed today, as investigations into alleged corruption within the government widen. The move follows mounting pressure from lawmakers and international allies for greater accountability and transparency in Ukraine.
Yermak’s departure comes amid a period of heightened scrutiny regarding corruption allegations, including investigations into officials linked to energy procurement and other government dealings. While Yermak himself was not directly accused of wrongdoing in those specific investigations, concerns over his oversight and the individuals connected to him contributed to the decision.The dismissal underscores Zelenskyy‘s commitment to address corruption concerns, particularly as Ukraine seeks continued Western support for its defense against Russia and pursues membership in the European Union.
Yermak has been a close ally of Zelenskyy for over 15 years, beginning with their collaboration in the television production industry when Zelenskyy was a comedian and actor. He joined Zelenskyy’s first presidential team overseeing foreign affairs and was appointed chief of staff in February 2020.Throughout Russia’s invasion, beginning in February 2022, Yermak has been a constant companion to Zelenskyy on international trips and wielded meaningful influence within the Ukrainian government.
Domestically, Yermak functioned as a key gatekeeper for Zelenskyy, reportedly playing a central role in the selection of top government officials, including prime ministers and ministers. Prior to his dismissal, individuals connected to Yermak and the president’s office had previously been subject to investigation.
Earlier this month, Zelenskyy faced internal dissent from lawmakers following the publication of details from an energy sector investigation. While some lawmakers called for Yermak to take duty, Zelenskyy initially resisted calls for his removal, urging Ukrainians to unite and “stop the political games” amid ongoing pressure to negotiate a settlement with russia.
The European Union has explicitly stated that Ukraine must demonstrate a crackdown on corruption as a condition for potential membership. The dismissal of Yermak signals a response to these demands and an attempt to restore public trust.
