Major Shakeup in Ukrainian Leadership
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has suffered a significant political blow with the resignation of his closest aide and chief of staff, Andrii Yermak. The departure marks the most substantial change within Zelenskyy's inner circle since Russia launched its full-scale invasion nearly four years ago.
Yermak submitted his resignation on Friday, November 28, 2025, just hours after anti-corruption officials conducted a raid on his residence. The investigation forms part of a major corruption scandal that has rocked Ukraine's political establishment, already forcing two ministers from their positions.
The Power Behind the Presidency
Andrii Yermak has been a constant presence beside Zelenskyy since his presidential campaign began in 2019. He evolved into one of the most influential figures in Ukrainian politics, despite never holding elected office. Yermak wielded tremendous authority over ministerial and military appointments and controlled access to the president himself.
His responsibilities extended to international diplomacy, where he served as Ukraine's lead negotiator in peace talks. Most recently, he represented Ukrainian interests alongside US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during discussions in Geneva.
Throughout the conflict that began when Russian missiles first targeted Kyiv on February 24, 2022, Yermak stood as Zelenskyy's most trusted confidant. Many observers considered him the second most powerful individual in the country after the president.
Timing Couldn't Be Worse for Ukraine
The resignation comes at a particularly challenging moment for Ukraine. The nation continues to endure daily Russian bombardment while simultaneously facing increased American pressure to negotiate an end to the war with Moscow.
Anti-corruption activists had been vocal in demanding Yermak's departure, warning that his continued presence risked tarnishing President Zelenskyy's reputation. The scandal centres on allegations that individuals sought to control contracts at Ukraine's state atomic energy agency, potentially involving around $100 million (£76 million) in kickbacks and laundered money.
While investigators have not charged Yermak with any crimes or named him as a suspect, the raid on his property raised immediate questions about his knowledge of the alleged scheme. The chief of staff had stated he was fully cooperating with the investigation before tendering his resignation.
President Zelenskyy now faces the daunting prospect of navigating both war and political instability without his most senior advisor. The departure leaves a significant void in Ukraine's leadership structure at a time when strong, unified command appears more crucial than ever.
