Andriy Yermak, the former head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, expressed confidence in the country’s judicial system following a recent court ruling that upheld his pretrial detention. Yermak faces allegations related to money laundering linked to the construction of a cooperative housing project known as “Dynasty” near Kyiv.
Speaking to reporters after the court session, Yermak emphasized the significance of transparency in legal proceedings. He remarked, “Today, everyone is equal before the law. For me, it is essential to defend my rights through justice and our legislation. I believe this serves as an example for all citizens to witness how this process unfolds. If everything is conducted transparently and within the framework of the law, it is a good example for everyone to trust in Ukrainian justice. I have faith in it.”
He also noted that the President of Ukraine guarantees the protection of rights enshrined in the Constitution. Yermak concluded, “You see that justice is working.”
Prior to Yermak’s statements, the Appellate Chamber of the High Anti-Corruption Court (VAKS) rejected his appeal against the pretrial detention order, which allows for release upon posting a bail of 140 million hryvnias. This decision took effect immediately and is not subject to further appeal.
As bail has been posted, Yermak is now subject to several procedural obligations, which include:
- Reporting to investigators, prosecutors, and the court as required;
- Not leaving Kyiv without permission;
- Informing authorities of any changes to his residence or employment;
- Avoiding contact with specified individuals;
- Surrendering his passports for international travel and wearing an electronic monitoring device.
On May 11, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) announced charges against Yermak concerning the legalization of funds during the construction of the “Dynasty” housing complex in Kozyn, Kyiv region. Investigators allege that the financing may have originated from corrupt practices within the state enterprise Energoatom.
The charges fall under Article 209, Part 3 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which addresses the legalization of assets obtained through criminal means by an organized group or in particularly large amounts. Conviction under this statute could lead to imprisonment for a term of 8 to 12 years, along with a ban from holding certain positions or engaging in specific activities for up to three years, and the confiscation of property.
On May 12 and 13, VAKS judges heard arguments from SAP prosecutors and Yermak’s defense team to determine the appropriate pretrial measures. On May 14, the court ordered Yermak’s detention with the option to post bail of 140 million hryvnias. Yermak claimed he lacked the funds but mentioned having “enough friends and acquaintances” who could assist him.
On May 18, the bail was posted, allowing Yermak to be released from custody. Among those who contributed to the bail were former Ukrainian national football team coach Serhiy Rebrov, Yermak’s lawyer Ihor Fomin, and Rosa Tapanova, director of the National Historical-Memorial Reserve “Babyn Yar.” Reports indicate that lawyer Serhiy Svyryba, a former partner at the Asters law firm, is a classmate of Yermak.
Andriy Yermak, former head of Ukraine's Presidential Office, is facing serious legal allegations but asserts his faith in the judicial system. Following a court ruling that upheld his pretrial detention, he emphasized the importance of transparency and legal rights, while detailing the conditions of his release after posting bail.