Post by : Rameen Ariff

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed his most powerful aide, Andriy Yermak, after investigators carried out a dramatic raid at Yermak’s home as part of a major corruption inquiry. The move marks one of the biggest political shake-ups in Kyiv since the war began and comes at a time when Ukraine is under intense pressure both on the battlefield and in diplomacy.

The decision is a major setback for Zelensky, who is currently facing a renewed Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine. It also comes just as the United States — Ukraine’s most crucial ally — presented an unexpected peace proposal that many in Kyiv believe heavily benefits Moscow.

Only a week earlier, Zelensky had placed strong trust in Yermak, naming him Ukraine’s chief negotiator to refine Washington’s proposal. But on Friday, the president made a sudden announcement through a video address, confirming that the Office of the President would be reorganised. He stated that Yermak had submitted his resignation, and shortly after, Zelensky signed a decree formally removing him.

The National Anti-Corruption Agency and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that they had searched Yermak’s apartment earlier in the day. Although they did not reveal details of the investigation, Yermak is said to be cooperating. He has previously been linked to a suspected $100-million kickback scheme in Ukraine’s strategic energy sector, a case that has caused public anger at a time when Russia continues to attack the country’s power grid.

With Ukraine facing blackouts, heating shortages and severe winter challenges, the corruption scandal has only intensified concerns among citizens. In his address, Zelensky urged Ukrainians to stay united, warning that losing unity could endanger the country’s future.

Zelensky said consultations will begin on Saturday to find a replacement. Until then, discussions with the United States will be led by Ukraine’s military, diplomats and intelligence officials. US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is expected to arrive in Kyiv soon to discuss the latest war-ending proposal, while President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff is set to travel to Moscow for meetings with Vladimir Putin.

Yermak has long been seen as Zelensky’s closest and most influential ally. His opponents in Kyiv accuse him of controlling access to the president, sidelining critics and shaping nearly every key decision. Before entering politics with Zelensky in 2019, Yermak worked as a film producer and copyright lawyer. Over the years, he gained a reputation as the second-most powerful man in Ukraine, often referred to as the country’s unofficial “vice-president.”

Despite his influence, Yermak has remained deeply unpopular among the public. A survey in March 2025 by the Razumkov Centre found that nearly two-thirds of Ukrainians did not trust him. Analysts say his removal may help Kyiv strengthen its position in talks with Washington at a time when every decision carries high stakes.

European Union officials responded to the news by expressing support for Ukraine’s anti-corruption bodies, praising them for acting independently. This comes months after Zelensky attempted to reduce their autonomy, a move he later reversed following public protests and pressure from the EU.

Throughout the war, Yermak and Zelensky have been inseparable. Reports suggest the two often worked side by side in the presidential bunker, sharing meals, discussions and even free-time activities. But with Ukraine now navigating a critical moment both in battle and diplomacy, political missteps could prove costly.

Zelensky stressed that Russia is waiting for Ukraine to falter and promised the country would not make the mistakes Moscow is hoping for.

#Global News