Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the resignation of his chief of staff, Andrii Yermak, after an early morning raid by anti-corruption investigators on his home and office.
The Ukrainian president said, in a video posted to his Telegram account: “Russia really wants Ukraine to make mistakes. There will be no mistakes on our part.”
He added: “I’m grateful to Andriy that Ukraine’s position on the negotiating track was always presented as required: it was always a patriotic position.
“But I want there to be no rumours and speculation. Regarding a new office head, tomorrow I’ll hold consultations with those who might lead this institution. When all the attention is focused on diplomacy and the defence in a war, inner strength is required.”
Why It Matters
Ukrainian corruption has been a major concern of the U.S. under the Trump administration and a focal point of criticism targeting Zelensky. The latest $100 million corruption scandal involving the state nuclear energy company has triggered Ukraine’s worst political crisis since the 2022 invasion by Russia.
It comes as Ukraine has been under U.S. pressure to secure a peace deal with Russia and it threatens to further undermine American public support for Ukraine and trust in Zelensky’s leadership, as well as imperil the vital U.S. support for its defense against Russia’s forces.
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