Andriy Yermak, the former head of the President’s Office in Ukraine, has publicly contested the bail amount of 180 million hryvnias proposed by prosecutors, stating he lacks the funds to meet such a requirement.
“I definitely do not have that kind of money,” Yermak told reporters following a court hearing.
He clarified that his financial resources are limited to what is disclosed in his official declaration.
Yermak’s attorney, Ihor Fomin, expressed his belief that the court should deliver a fair ruling that aligns with legal standards and human rights protections. He criticized the bail amount as being excessively burdensome.
“180 million—one would need a truck full of cash to cover that, and even then it wouldn’t fit,” Fomin remarked, questioning the rationale behind the prosecutor’s decision.
Fomin further argued that the prosecutor’s justification for the bail amount, which referenced Yermak’s lifestyle, lacked solid evidence. He pointed out that Yermak spent six years in a secure location and questioned the prosecutor’s claims about his post-resignation activities.
Judge Viktor Nohachevskyi announced that a final decision regarding Yermak’s preventive measure will be made on May 14 at 9:00 AM.
Background on Yermak’s Legal Situation
The High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine has initiated proceedings concerning Yermak, who faces allegations of money laundering related to illicit funds.
The prosecutor indicated that Yermak’s official income does not correspond with the costs associated with a luxury housing development linked to him. Witnesses in the case have described him as a multimillionaire, suggesting that his wealth far exceeds his reported income.
The prosecution maintains that a bail amount of 180 million hryvnias would serve as a reliable alternative to pre-trial detention.
Andriy Yermak, former head of Ukraine's Presidential Office, disputes a proposed bail of 180 million hryvnias, citing insufficient funds. His attorney argues the amount is excessively high and lacks proper justification, as the court prepares to make a decision on the matter.