Zelensky's Ex-Chief of Staff Named Suspect in Major Corruption Probe

In a significant development that could shake President Volodymyr Zelensky's administration, Ukraine's anti-graft agencies have identified Andriy Yermak, the president's powerful former chief of staff, as a suspect in a major corruption investigation. Yermak, who wielded considerable influence and was often seen as the second most powerful person in Ukraine, is accused of involvement in a criminal group that allegedly laundered around $10.5 million. This probe casts a shadow over Zelensky's office at a critical juncture in the ongoing war with Russia, potentially impacting international trust and domestic stability.

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Yermak was suspected of participating in a criminal group that laundered around $10.5 million through an elite housing development outside the capital Kyiv.

The investigation is part of a broader crackdown on high-level graft, which has already seen other high-profile figures implicated, including a former Zelensky business partner accused in a $100 million kickback scheme and a former deputy prime minister. Yermak, a former film producer and entertainment lawyer, frequently appeared alongside Zelensky at public events and served as Kyiv's lead negotiator in peace talks with Russia. His departure last year was part of a government-wide shake-up aimed at bolstering public confidence amid persistent allegations of centralized power within the president's office.

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he denied owning real estate in the development but did not comment further.

While Ukrainian law prevents the agencies from naming Yermak directly, local media widely identified him. Speaking to Radio Liberty, he denied owning property in the development linked to the alleged laundering but offered no further comment. Zelensky's communications adviser, Dmytro Lytvyn, stated that it was premature to comment as procedural actions are still underway. The naming of Yermak as a suspect, despite his unelected position, highlights the deep-seated challenges Ukraine faces in combating corruption, even as it strives to project an image of reform and resilience on the international stage. This case will be closely watched both domestically and internationally, particularly by Ukraine's allies who have provided substantial support.

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it was too early to comment on the suspicion against Yermak because procedural actions were still ongoing.