Zelensky’s chief of staff Andriy Yermak resigns after anti-corruption raid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has resigned following an anti-corruption raid on his home.

Yermak, 54, has been Zelensky’s closest adviser during Russia’s full-scale war, but he is under increasing pressure over the corruption scandal – even though he has not been accused of any wrongdoing.

Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies raided his apartment in Kiev’s government quarter early Friday and Yermak said on social media that he had “my full cooperation”.

Zelensky recently appointed his chief of staff to lead crucial talks in the coming days as US President Trump is leading a new campaign to end the war with Russia.

“I am grateful to Andrey that Ukraine’s position on the path to dialogue was always presented as required: it was always the patriotic position,” the Ukrainian leader said in an address in Kiev on Friday.

“But I want there to be no rumors and speculations. Regarding the new head of office, tomorrow I will consult with those who can lead this institution. When all attention is focused on diplomacy and defense in war, internal strength is required.”

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