Ukraine, Yermak resigns after corruption scandal

Kyiv (Ukraine), Nov. 29 (LaPresse) – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced yesterday the resignation of his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, a central figure in presidential power and the main negotiator in talks with the United States. The decision came just hours after a search of his residence by Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies. The search—described as unprecedented at the heart of Ukrainian power—was a severe blow for Zelensky, who is engaged in delicate negotiations with Washington for a possible peace agreement. Yermak had been one of the president’s closest collaborators for years and one of the most powerful figures in the country. Zelensky explained that the resignation is necessary to avoid internal divisions and maintain national unity at a critical moment. In his evening statement, the president announced a “reset” of the presidential office and the start of consultations to appoint a new chief of staff. The new Ukrainian delegation for negotiations with the United States will be jointly led by the head of the armed forces, Andriy Hnatov, the Foreign Minister, Andriy Sybiha, and the head of the National Security Council, Rustem Umerov.