Ukrainian President Announces Office ‘Reorganization’ After Key Aide’s Departure
KYIV, Ukraine: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s influential chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has resigned from his position just hours after the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor Office (SAPO) searched his home and office on Friday.
In announcing the departure, President Zelenskyy stated his desire to “avoid rumours and speculation” that could distract from the nation’s defence. The official decree dismissing Yermak has been posted on the President’s Office website.
“For internal strength to exist, there must be no reasons to be distracted by anything other than defending Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said, emphasizing that 100% of the country’s strength must be focused on defense. He also announced a “wholesale reorganisation” of the presidential office, adding that he would hold consultations to select a new head.
Yermak, a key negotiator in international talks, will be replaced in upcoming negotiations with the Trump administration by a delegation including the Chief of the General Staff, the Foreign Affairs Minister’s representatives, the Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, and intelligence services.
The resignation comes at a critical time, as the President stressed the need for internal unity to prevent international allies from having “questions” or doubts about Ukraine.