Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the dismissal of Andriy Yermak from his position as the head of the Presidential Office. Zelensky clarified that this decision was not related to the “Midas” investigation, a corruption case in the energy sector.
During a statement, Zelensky emphasized, “У мене були свої причини,” indicating that personal reasons motivated his choice. He rejected the idea that corruption investigations pressured his decision.
Simon Shuster’s article outlines that Zelensky had resisted pressure from the U.S. government and many of his closest allies in Ukraine to remove Yermak, who was a key negotiator for the country. It was also noted that Yermak had conflicts with several Western diplomats and was at odds with almost all presidential associates.
Recall that on November 28, 2025, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) conducted searches at Yermak’s office. That same day, Yermak submitted a resignation letter, which was approved by Zelensky.
According to RBC-Ukraine, the searches may be tied to the “Midas” case involving allegations of corruption in the energy sector, with suspects including co-owner of “Kvartal-95” Timur Mindich and several former high-ranking officials.
Reports indicate that recordings featuring Mindich include a character referred to as “Ali Baba,” who allegedly gives instructions against the SAP and NABU, implying a connection to Yermak.
On November 29, Yermak informed the New York Post that he would go to the front lines and expressed readiness for any potential reprisals. As of January 15, NABU Director Semen Kryvonos confirmed that Yermak had not been formally charged.
By late January, Yermak resumed his right to practice law, which had been suspended on February 20, 2020, following the dismissal of his predecessor, Andriy Bohdan.
RBC-Ukraine also reported that since his resignation, Yermak has led a low-profile life, maintaining communication with officials, visiting the gym, and remaining under enhanced security.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Andriy Yermak from his role as head of the Presidential Office, stating the decision was not linked to ongoing corruption investigations.