KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian anti-corruption authorities have officially designated the former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a suspect in a significant financial crimes investigation.
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office revealed Monday evening that Andriy Yermak faces suspicion in a purported money-laundering operation involving 460 million hryvnia, equivalent to approximately $10.5 million.
Authorities stated through a Telegram post that their inquiry remains active.
This development falls one level below filing formal criminal charges against Yermak, who stepped down from his position in November. He had served as Ukraine’s primary representative in discussions with the United States and departed amid a controversy that created the most serious challenge to Zelenskyy’s administration since Russia launched its comprehensive military assault.
The probe creates significant political embarrassment for the Ukrainian president as he advocates for his nation’s European Union membership, an endeavor expected to span several years. Widespread corruption remains among the primary barriers hindering Ukraine’s EU acceptance.
Yermak had been among Zelenskyy’s most trusted advisors, with the president repeatedly refusing demands to dismiss him, and wielded considerable influence within the administration.
While Zelenskyy has remained silent regarding the anti-corruption agencies’ declaration, his spokesperson Dmytro Lytvyn stated “the investigation is ongoing, it’s early to draw conclusions.”
According to investigators, Yermak allegedly participated in washing illicit funds through building developments in the vicinity of Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital city. Authorities conducted a search of his residence in November. No additional suspects have been identified.
A determination regarding potential formal charges against Yermak may require several more months.
When Yermak announced his departure, Zelenskyy described the move as restructuring the presidential administration and expressed gratitude for Yermak’s contributions to peace negotiations.
