A Key Aide Steps Down
Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine and widely seen as President Volodymyr Zelensky’s top aide, resigned Friday after anti-corruption investigators searched his home and offices. The move followed coordinated raids by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office.
Officials say the searches are part of a widening corruption probe tied to contracts in Ukraine’s energy and nuclear sectors. The investigation, often called Operation Midas, has already triggered several high-level departures in the government, including two ministers. Yermak is not officially listed as a suspect, but his exit signals the gravity of the situation.
What Investigators Say Happened
According to investigators, the alleged scheme involved kickbacks worth roughly 10-15% of contract values at the state nuclear energy company Energoatom.
Authorities believe about $ 100 million was siphoned from projects meant to protect critical energy infrastructure. The timing is especially sensitive, since Ukraine is still fighting a full-scale war and its power facilities remain frequent targets of Russian strikes.
Pressure on Zelensky
Yermak’s resignation is a blow to the president’s inner circle. He is often described as the most influential figure in Kyiv after Zelensky, and his exit under pressure comes at an especially difficult moment.
Ukraine is facing strong demands from Western allies to show meaningful anti-corruption progress in exchange for continued military and financial aid. With the country dealing with blackouts and ongoing hardship at home, news that defense-related funds may have been stolen risks deepening public frustration and weakening trust in the government.
As CNN reports:
Yermak’s resignation announced by Zelensky on Friday, complicates Kyiv’s position going into crucial peace negotiations with the United States.
“I want no one to have any questions about Ukraine today. Therefore, today we have the following internal decisions. First, there will be a reboot of the Office of the President of Ukraine. The head of the office, Andriy Yermak, has written a letter of resignation,” Zelensky said in his daily TV address.
Yermak did not immediately issue a public statement. He confirmed earlier on Friday that the raid was going on, saying on Telegram that he was “fully cooperating” with the authorities.
“The investigators are not encountering any obstacles. They have been given full access to the apartment, and my lawyers are on site, interacting with law enforcement officials,” he said.
What Comes Next
Investigators say they are not done. More indictments or resignations may follow as the probe widens. International partners, including the European Union, will monitor the next steps closely as a test of Ukraine’s commitment to cleaning up corruption.
Zelensky has described the moment as a reset for his administration. Even so, the scandal has shaken political stability in Kyiv at a critical point in both the war effort and ongoing discussions about future peace talks.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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