On Friday, November 28, 2025, the Ukrainian political scene was shaken by an unexpected news. Andrij Jermak, head of the Chancellery of the President of Ukraine and one of the closest individuals of Volodymyr Zelenski, resigned. This decision occurred shortly after searches conducted by anti-corruption agencies in his home and office. This event raises questions about the stability of the Ukrainian government during the ongoing war and the fight against corruption.
Who's Andrij Jermak? Key figure in Ukrainian politics
Andrij Jermak, born in 1971 in Kiev, is an experienced lawyer and film producer who entered politics alongside Volodymyr Zelenski. Since 2020, he has served as head of the President's Chancellery, becoming the de facto "right hand" of Zelenski. Jermak was responsible for international negotiations, including those concerning the conflict with Russia, and for coordinating government activities. His role was crucial in shaping Ukraine's foreign policy, making him one of the most influential people in the country. Under his direction, Ukraine held intensive talks with Western partners, including Poland, the United States and the European Union.
Jermak was often called the "grey cardinal" of Ukrainian politics – a person who operates behind the scenes, but has a huge influence on decisions. His resignation is not only a loss to Zelenski, but a potential signal of changes in the structure of power in Kiev.
What happened? Corruption incident details
According to reports, on Friday morning anti-corruption agencies – the National Anti-corruption Office (NABU) and the Special Anti-corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP) – conducted searches at Jermak's house and office. Jermak himself confirmed these actions, stating that investigators have full access to all premises. President Zelenski responded quickly, accepting resignation and expressing his gratitude for Jermak's work so far. In a statement, Zelenski stressed: "I am grateful to Andrij for always presenting a Ukrainian position in negotiations".
The corruption scandal that shook Ukraine concerns suspected fraud and possible bribes. The details of the investigation are not yet fully known, but the media speculate that this may be related to government contracts or international negotiations. This is not the first such case in Ukraine – in recent months several high officials have lost their position for similar reasons. Jermak's resignation came only a few hours after the search, suggesting that the decision was dictated by the pressure of the investigation.
Social media and politics reactions
News of Jermak's resignation flashed social media. On platform X (formerly Twitter) a post by user Łukasz Bok, informing about the event, collected thousands of views and hundreds of reactions. Users commented on the issue with mixed feelings – from surprise to ironic remarks about corruption in Ukraine. One of the comments was, "Well, that's cool, they're about to get another 100 million of this shit," referring to international aid. Others stressed that this was evidence of anti-corruption institutions: "It is by its way that it shows that this institution to track corruption in Ukraine works and is doing quite well."
In political circles, reactions are divided. Experts say Zelenski will not release Jermak permanently, and resignation is a temporary step to avoid gossip. The opposition in Ukraine demands full transparency, and international observers, including from Poland, emphasise the importance of combating corruption for further EU and NATO assistance.
Consequences for Ukraine and the region
Jermak's resignation may have far-reaching consequences. During the war with Russia Ukraine needs stable leadership, and the loss of a key advisor to Zelenski weakens Kiev's negotiating position. This is also a test for Ukrainian anti-corruption institutions, which have been under Western scrutiny for years. If the investigation proves guilty, it could affect Ukraine's image as a country reforming towards democracy.
For Poland, as a close ally, the matter is important. Polish media widely comment on events, stressing the need to stop financing if corruption is widespread. Experts warn that this could be the beginning of major changes in the Ukrainian government.
Summary: Time for change?
Andrij Jermak's affair is a reminder that even during the crisis, the fight against corruption cannot be neglected. Is this the end of Jermak's era in politics, or just a break? Time will tell. One thing is certain – Ukraine faces new challenges and the world is watching with attention.
