The resignation of the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, has become the most high-profile political event of the autumn. The decision, confirmed by President Volodymyr Zelensky, came amid large-scale anti-corruption investigations that on the same day affected the highest levels of power.

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Yermak submitted his resignation and that it had been accepted. The head of state emphasized the “patriotic work” of his closest adviser and highlighted his role in international negotiations and shaping Ukraine’s foreign-policy agenda.

The resignation was formally submitted voluntarily, but its timing coincided with the activation of anti-corruption bodies, which increased attention to the political motives behind the decision.

On the same morning, NABU detectives and SAPO prosecutors conducted searches in Yermak’s home and office. The operation was part of a major corruption case linked to schemes in the energy sector and possible kickbacks involving the state-owned company Energoatom.

Although Yermak has not been officially named a suspect, the very fact that searches were conducted targeting one of the country’s top presidential officials was a political blow. The actions of anti-corruption authorities were unexpected for the President’s Office and intensified internal political pressure on Zelensky.

Over the past years, Yermak served as Ukraine’s chief negotiator in talks with the U.S. and EU on security issues, in developing diplomatic frameworks for ending the war, and in promoting Ukraine’s “peace formula”.

He led the Ukrainian delegation in recent negotiation rounds with Western partners, and many diplomatic processes depended on his political influence. His departure may temporarily destabilize negotiation mechanisms, as he was the chief architect of Ukraine’s foreign-policy initiatives. The resignation of the president’s closest ally carries mixed consequences.

Positive signals:

• demonstrates willingness to respond to corruption scandals;
• an attempt to maintain the trust of Western partners;
• a “reset” of the team in wartime conditions and ongoing reforms.

Negative risks:

• potential strengthening of domestic political opponents;
• the emergence of a “management vacuum” within the President’s Office;
• more complicated communication with international allies.

The timing of such a crisis is particularly unfavorable: Ukraine is in the midst of implementing a complex diplomatic plan and needs internal stability within the president's team.

For Western partners, corruption investigations are a key indicator of government transparency. Against the backdrop of discussions over new aid packages and strengthening Kyiv’s defense, the demonstration of independence by NABU and SAPO may play a positive role.

However, according to political analysts, the resignation of such a powerful official amid investigative actions raises questions about the depth of systemic problems.

Yermak’s statement appears to be more an attempt by the government to save face, maintain the confidence of external partners during ongoing negotiations, and preserve internal legitimacy, rather than an admission of guilt. The decision will affect the internal stability of the Ukrainian government, the country’s international image, the architecture of diplomatic negotiations, and the balance of power within Zelensky’s team. Attention now turns to who will replace one of the most influential figures in Ukrainian politics in recent years – and how this will shape the country’s course during a continuing war.

#UKRAINE

28.11.2025 09:59