This evening, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered an important address in which he announced the resignation of his long-serving chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. Zelensky stressed that Ukraine cannot afford mistakes and that national unity is the key to survival. The address, published on the platform X (formerly Twitter), quickly drew thousands of reactions, ranging from support to sharp criticism.
Context of the Resignation: Anti-Corruption Investigations and External Pressure
According to media reports, Yermak’s resignation followed raids by anti-corruption agencies on his home, part of a wider investigation into corruption in the president’s circle. In his address, Zelensky thanked Yermak for his work, emphasizing that his approach in negotiations had always been patriotic. „I want there to be no rumors or speculation” – Zelensky said, announcing consultations on a successor as early as the next day.
This is not the first change in the Ukrainian government in recent months. In the background, intensive diplomatic talks are underway with international partners, including the United States, on the terms of peace with Russia. Zelensky mentioned almost 20 conversations with leaders over several days, including with the President of Finland, who reported Russian demands. „Russia really wants Ukraine to make mistakes,” the president warned, calling for a focus on defending the country.
Yermak’s dismissal is seen as an attempt to clean up the administration in the face of growing pressure from the West, which is demanding anti-corruption reforms in exchange for continued aid. As NPR reports, the investigation covers, among other things, energy and justice matters, and Zelensky announced assessments of ministers’ performance in these areas.
Key Excerpts from Zelensky’s Address
In his address, lasting over five minutes and recorded against the backdrop of nighttime Kyiv, Zelensky focused on the need for inner strength and unity. Here are the most important quotes (translated from Ukrainian):
- On diplomacy and partners: „In the last few days alone, I have already held almost 20 conversations with our partners. All of them say in one voice that they are impressed by how Ukraine holds up under the current pressure, how it fights for peace for its people – and in fact for everyone in Europe.”
- On Yermak’s resignation: „Before the burdened Presidential Office, the head of the office, Andriy Yermak, submitted a request for dismissal. I am grateful to Andriy that Ukraine’s position in negotiations was always represented as it should be – always patriotically.”
- On the army and budget: „Our heroes are destroying the enemy. This is the foundation of our ability to build diplomacy. […] I expect Ukraine’s Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, together with members of parliament, in dialogue and unity, to secure three things for Ukraine: above all, the adoption of the 2026 budget, which means our state’s capacity for defense, ensuring all social payments and the necessary stability.”
- Call for unity: „If we lose unity, we risk losing everything – ourselves, Ukraine, our future. We must unite. We must hold on. There is no other choice. There will be no other Ukraine. Let us defend Ukraine! Glory to Ukraine!”
The address ends with a strong appeal to avoid mistakes that Russia could exploit.
Reactions to the Address: From Support to Corruption Accusations
Zelensky’s post on X gathered over 5,000 likes and hundreds of comments within hours. Supporters, such as the account 414 Magyar’s Birds, wrote: „Ukraine is united, our unity is our strength, and we are working together for our Victory.” Others, such as user @mond33, criticized: „This is the end – no more deaths for golden toilets,” referring to the corruption allegations.
International media, such as CNBC and The Guardian, stress that the dismissal is another blow to Zelensky’s administration at a time when Ukraine is negotiating peace under Russian pressure and shifts in US policy after the elections. Critics accuse the government of corruption, while supporters see in it a step toward strengthening the negotiating position.
What Next? Challenges for Ukraine
Zelensky’s address comes at a critical moment: preparations are underway for meetings with the American side, and the army needs a fair distribution of resources. The president also announced analyses within the security services and the army, which may bring further changes.
Facing Russia’s winter offensive and global tensions, the appeal for unity seems crucial. Will Yermak’s dismissal strengthen Ukraine or weaken it? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: Ukraine is fighting not only on the front, but also for trust at home and on the international stage.
