A lawyer representing Andriy Yermak, the former head of the Ukrainian President’s Office, has dismissed allegations of money laundering involving 460 million UAH linked to elite construction projects near Kyiv. Ihor Fomin, Yermak’s attorney, stated that the accusations lack foundation and asserted that Yermak is not connected to the purported scheme.
During an interview on public television, Fomin expressed skepticism regarding the allegations, stating, “The question of money laundering, in my opinion, is unfounded, as one does not need to be a professional lawyer to ask: whose money was Yermak supposed to launder in this construction?” He characterized the situation as a result of public pressure, noting that he had never encountered such intense scrutiny in his career, particularly directed at law enforcement regarding Yermak.
Fomin indicated that the defense team was taken by surprise by the formal charges against Yermak and plans to assess the legal aspects of the case moving forward. He also refuted any connections between Yermak and the so-called “Mindycha tapes,” expressing confusion over the nature of the recordings in question.
“What tapes? What connection do we have to any tapes? Have you ever heard Yermak’s voice in any of them?” Fomin questioned, highlighting his lack of understanding about the tapes’ authenticity and relevance.
Fomin suggested that there appears to be a coordinated campaign preceding specific procedural actions, raising concerns about whether this campaign is intended to influence legal proceedings. He criticized the dissemination of information ahead of formal charges, stating that it undermines the legal process.
The allegations against Yermak emerged following investigative actions by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) on May 11. Reports indicate that Yermak is suspected of facilitating the laundering of funds during the construction of an upscale residential complex named “Dynasty” in Kozyn, Kyiv region. Investigators claim that the funds may have originated from corrupt practices within the state enterprise Energoatom.
Yermak has publicly responded to the charges, asserting that he owns only one car and one apartment, indicating a lack of financial means to engage in money laundering. Dmitry Litvin, an advisor to the President of Ukraine, commented on the situation, suggesting that the context of the allegations has been long-standing and should not come as a surprise.
In previous developments, on November 28, 2025, NABU and SAP conducted searches at Yermak’s residence, which he confirmed and stated he was willing to cooperate with the investigation. Subsequently, President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Yermak from his position, appointing Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, as his successor. Following his resignation amid the corruption scandal, Yermak announced plans to join the front lines.
Yermak has also taken a proactive role in legal advocacy, leading a committee within the National Association of Advocates aimed at supporting victims of armed aggression against Ukraine and facilitating compensation mechanisms. Recently, the committee launched a project called “Lawyer+”, which involves consultations with military units in conflict zones.
The former head of the Ukrainian President's Office, Andriy Yermak, faces allegations of money laundering related to a construction project. His lawyer has strongly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the charges are unfounded and criticizing the manner in which the allegations have been publicized.