Andriy Yermak, the former head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, has been appointed to lead a newly established committee focused on the protection of individuals affected by armed aggression against Ukraine. This initiative, launched under the National Association of Advocates of Ukraine (NAAU), aims to address compensation mechanisms and legal frameworks for the country’s recovery.
The committee, which is advisory in nature, was created following a directive from NAAU Chair Lidiya Izovitova. Yermak’s professional background encompasses legal practice, management in the private sector, and experience in government, including contributions to policy formation. Jeanne Grushko, a lawyer, has been named as the deputy head of the committee.
The NAAU has indicated that the committee’s establishment is intended to ensure the legal community’s systematic involvement in developing legal solutions for those impacted by armed conflict. It seeks to enhance compensation mechanisms and provide regulatory support for Ukraine’s restoration efforts. Additionally, the committee aims to strengthen the professional capacity of lawyers in defending the rights and interests of affected individuals during and after the war.
In a related context, Yermak previously proposed joining efforts to contest the disqualification of Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych from the 2026 Olympics. However, legal representatives for Heraskevych later stated that no one from Yermak’s team had reached out to offer assistance.
On November 28, 2022, reports emerged of searches conducted by anti-corruption detectives at Yermak’s residence, following which he confirmed his willingness to cooperate with investigators. Subsequently, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Yermak’s dismissal from his position. Following his resignation amid a corruption scandal, Yermak expressed intentions to serve at the front lines.
As the situation continues to evolve, the establishment of this committee reflects ongoing efforts to address the legal needs of those affected by the conflict and to facilitate Ukraine’s recovery.
The newly formed committee led by Andriy Yermak aims to support victims of armed aggression in Ukraine through legal advocacy and compensation mechanisms. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to address the legal challenges faced by affected individuals amid the country's recovery.