This evening, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenski gave an important speech in which he informed about the resignation of his longtime head of office, Andrij Jermak. Zelenski stressed that Ukraine cannot afford mistakes, and the unity of the nation is the key to survival. The speech, published on platform X (formerly Twitter), quickly gained thousands of reactions, from support to harsh criticism.
Context of the resignation: Anti-corruption investigation and external pressure
According to media reports, Jermak's resignation followed the raids of anti-corruption services on his home, which is part of a wider investigation into corruption surrounding the president.Zelenski in his speech thanked Jermak for his work, stressing that his attitude in the negotiations was always patriotic. "I want there to be no rumors and speculation," said Zelenski, announcing a consultation on the successor 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, concerning peace conditions with Russia. Zelenski mentioned nearly 20 talks with leaders in a few days, including with the President of Finland, who reported on Russian demands. "Russia really wants Ukraine to make mistakes," warned the President, calling for focus on defending the country.
Jermak's resignation is seen as an attempt to clear the administration in the face of increasing pressure from the West, which demands anti-corruption reforms in exchange for further assistance. According to the NPR, the investigation covers, among others, energy and justice issues, and Zelenski announced evaluations of ministers' work in these areas.
Key passages of Zelenski's speech
In his over five-minute speech, recorded against the background of the nightly Kiev, Zelenski focused on the need for inner strength and unity. Here are the most important quotations (translation from Ukrainian):
- About diplomacy and partners:"In the last few days alone, I have had almost 20 conversations with our partners. Everyone says that they are impressed with how Ukraine keeps under current pressure, how it fights in search of peace for its people – and really for everyone in Europe."
- About Jermak's resignation:"Before the President's office, the head of Andrij Jermak's office filed for resignation. I am grateful to Andrij for the fact that the Ukrainian position in the negotiations has always been represented as it should be – always patriotic."
- About the army and the budget:"Our heroes destroy the enemy. It's the basis of our ability to build diplomacy. [...] I expect the Prime Minister of Ukraine Julia Swedenko with her MPs in dialogue and unity to ensure Ukraine three things: first of all, the adoption of the budget for 2026, namely the ability of our state to defend, to ensure all social withdrawals and the necessary stability."
- Call for Unity:"If we lose unity, we risk losing everything – ourselves, Ukraine, our future. We must unite. We have to hang on. There's no other choice. There will be no other Ukraine. Let's defend Ukraine!
The speech ends with a strong appeal to avoid errors that Russia could exploit.
Reactions to speech: From support to corruption charges
Zelenski's post on X collected over 5,000 likes and hundreds of comments within hours. Supporter, like the 414 Magyar’s Birds account, wrote: "Ukraine is united, our unity is our strength, and we work together for our Victory." Others, such as the user @mond33, criticized: "It's over – no more death for the golden toilets," referring to corruption charges.
International media, such as CNBC and The Guardian, emphasize that resignation is another blow to Zelenski's administration at a time when Ukraine negotiates peace under pressure from Russia and changes in US politics after the election. Critics accuse the government of corruption, while supporters see a step in this to strengthen the negotiating position.
What's next? Challenges for Ukraine
Zelenski's speech 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 in the security services and the army, which could bring further changes.
In the face of Russia's winter offensive and global tensions, the call for unity seems crucial. Will Jermak's resignation strengthen Ukraine or weaken Ukraine? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: Ukraine is fighting not only on the front but also on the inside and internationally.
