What's happened
On November 28, 2025, Andriy Yermak, Ukraine's powerful chief of staff and key peace negotiator, resigned following anti-corruption raids on his home amid a $100 million graft investigation linked to the state nuclear energy sector. His departure comes amid intense US pressure on Kyiv to reach a settlement with Russia, risking disruption to Ukraine's negotiating stance during ongoing conflict.
What's behind the headline?
Power and Influence Behind the Scenes
Andriy Yermak's resignation marks a pivotal moment in Ukraine's political and diplomatic landscape. As Zelenskyy's chief of staff and lead negotiator, Yermak was effectively the second most powerful figure in Kyiv, controlling key appointments and shaping peace negotiations. His departure amid a corruption scandal exposes vulnerabilities within Ukraine's leadership at a critical juncture.
Corruption's Impact on War and Diplomacy
The $100 million kickback scheme investigation, centered on the state nuclear energy sector, has shaken public trust and strained Ukraine's relations with Western allies demanding transparency. Yermak's close ties to implicated figures and his deputies' prior investigations underscore systemic governance challenges that could undermine Ukraine's war effort and diplomatic leverage.
US Pressure and Negotiation Risks
With Washington pushing Kyiv toward a peace deal that includes territorial concessions, Yermak's exit threatens to unsettle the delicate negotiation process. His replacement will face the dual challenge of maintaining unity within Ukraine's government and managing external demands while Russia continues its military advances.
Forecast and Consequences
The leadership shake-up will likely cause short-term disruption in Ukraine's peace talks and internal politics. However, it may also signal a commitment to anti-corruption reforms demanded by Western partners, potentially strengthening Ukraine's international standing. The successor's ability to balance war strategy, diplomacy, and governance reform will be crucial for Ukraine's future stability and sovereignty.
What the papers say
Mansur Mirovalev of Al Jazeera highlights Yermak's outsized role as Zelenskyy's "grey cardinal," noting his abrasive style and strategic miscalculations that contributed to military losses. Al Jazeera also details the $100 million corruption scandal and the political consensus leading to Yermak's dismissal. SBS emphasizes the timing of Yermak's resignation amid US-backed peace talks and the public outrage over graft, quoting Zelenskyy's call for unity and warning against mistakes. The Times of Israel focuses on the unprecedented anti-corruption raids and Zelenskyy's efforts to reset his presidential office, underscoring the political risks of Yermak's long tenure. Sky News stresses Yermak's influence since 2019 and the scandal's potential to tarnish Zelenskyy's reputation, while Reuters and AP News confirm the ongoing investigation without naming Yermak as a suspect. The New York Times provides context on Yermak's role in negotiations with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the broader diplomatic stalemate, quoting Yermak's firm stance against territorial concessions. Together, these sources paint a complex picture of a powerful figure brought down by corruption probes at a critical moment for Ukraine's war and diplomacy.
How we got here
Yermak, a close ally of President Zelenskyy since 2019, wielded significant influence over Ukraine's government and peace talks with Russia. The resignation follows a major corruption scandal involving kickbacks at the state atomic energy company, with anti-corruption agencies intensifying probes into officials connected to Yermak's office.
Go deeper
- What impact will Yermak's resignation have on Ukraine's peace negotiations?
- Who is likely to replace Andriy Yermak as chief of staff?
- How does the corruption scandal affect Ukraine's relations with Western allies?
Common question
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What Does Yermak's Resignation Mean for Ukraine's Peace Talks?
The resignation of Ukraine's top negotiator, Andriy Yermak, amid corruption probes raises important questions about Ukraine's diplomatic future and peace negotiations with Russia. This development comes at a critical time, with international pressure mounting and ongoing conflict. Below, we explore what Yermak's departure could mean for Ukraine's peace efforts and the broader geopolitical landscape.
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How Will Yermak's Resignation Impact Ukraine's Peace Negotiations?
The recent resignation of Ukraine's top peace negotiator, Andriy Yermak, amid a corruption probe, raises many questions about Ukraine's future stance in peace talks with Russia. With US pressures and internal political shifts, understanding the implications of this change is crucial for anyone following Eastern Europe's conflict. Below, we explore key questions about what this means for Ukraine's diplomatic efforts and the broader conflict landscape.
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What Are the Latest Public Reactions to Major Political and Natural Crises?
In today's fast-paced news cycle, public reactions and media coverage shape how we understand ongoing crises. From political scandals to natural disasters, people are eager to know how others are responding and what the media is saying. Below, we explore key questions about recent events, including political resignations, environmental disasters, and controversial media launches, providing clear insights into each story.
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Andriy Borisovich Yermak is a Ukrainian film producer, lawyer and current Head of the Presidential Administration. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed him on 11 February 2020.
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Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy is a Ukrainian politician, actor and comedian who is the 6th and current president of Ukraine, serving since May 2019.
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National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine or NABU is a Ukrainian law enforcement anti-corruption agency which investigates corruption in Ukraine and prepares cases for prosecution. It has investigatory powers but cannot indict suspects.
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.