Ukraine’s leadership has taken a massive hit. Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s powerful chief of staff, quit after dawn raids by anti-corruption agents at his Kyiv home and office.
The 54-year-old stepped down on 28 November, hours after dozens of officials from Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau stormed his residence and workplace in the heart of the government district.
Operation Midas: $100 Million Kickback Scandal Rocks Ukrainian Capital
The raids centre on Operation Midas, a sprawling investigation into a jaw-dropping $100 million bribery racket tied to Ukraine’s state nuclear power firm. Prosecutors say massive kickbacks flew to officials linked to contractors reinforcing energy infrastructure against Russian attacks.
Though Yermak isn’t officially a suspect, he confirmed on Telegram he fully cooperated with investigators.
Authorities kept details tight but confirmed the searches are part of a probe rattling Ukraine’s government to the core.
‘Feared Hatchet Man’ Bows Out Amid Corruption Storm
A former movie producer and lawyer, Yermak has been Zelenskyy’s right-hand man since 2020, taking charge in tense peace talks – especially the Geneva negotiations.
Dubbed Zelenskyy’s “feared hatchet man”, Yermak wielded huge power, known for crushing rivals and steering war-time decisions. Critics and members of Zelenskyy’s own party demanded his sacking over alleged corruption ties.
Polls say a massive 70% of Ukrainians wanted him gone.
Vitaliy Shabunin from the Anti-Corruption Action Center blasted, “This scheme could not have operated without Yermak’s knowledge. His influence was unprecedented.”
Political Fallout: Ministers Resign as Arrest Warrants Fly
- Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk and former minister Herman Halushchenko have tossed in the towel.
- An arrest warrant was issued for Zelenskyy’s ex-business partner Tymur Mindich, who fled Ukraine.
This scandal stands as Ukraine’s biggest political crisis since Putin’s invasion – throwing Zelenskyy’s leadership into doubt as Kyiv scrambles for Western aid and EU membership.
Zelenskyy Promises ‘Reboot’ but Faces Rocky Road Ahead
Zelenskyy announced Yermak’s resignation on Telegram, thanking him for “patriotic service” but stressing the urgent need to clear the air and strengthen his gov.
He’s racing to name a successor, highlighting the crucial role Yermak played in peace talks and wartime operations.
Western allies welcomed the raids as signs Ukraine’s anti-corruption forces mean business. But the scandal risks shaking trust at a delicate time when billions in aid and critical peace talks hang in the balance.
Moscow Jumping on Crisis, Kremlin Smears Kyiv Government
Kremlin mouthpiece Dmitry Peskov pounced to mock Zelenskyy’s shaky leadership, painting Ukraine as unstable just as Geneva talks unfold.
Experts warn the fallout could wreck diplomacy and public confidence during this critical moment.
Kyiv in Chaos as Dawn Raids Send Shockwaves Through Power
The early morning swoop stunned the capital, proving even the most powerful are fair game in Ukraine’s anti-corruption crackdown. The hardline approach aims to reassure Western donors but exposes deep cracks in Zelenskyy’s wartime team.
What’s Next for Ukraine?
With investigations far from over, Ukraine faces an uncertain road. Zelenskyy must steady the ship, replace a key insider, and prove to citizens and allies alike that his government still delivers justice and security in war.
