Zelensky's most powerful ally resigns... Who is Andriy Yermak, whose departure has caused a stir in Ukraine?

News Topical, Digital Desk : Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, resigned on Friday after anti-corruption officials raided his home in connection with a reported $100 million kickback scam.

Andriy Yermak was considered the second most powerful person in Ukraine and was a key figure in diplomacy and peace negotiations during the Russian invasion. He managed foreign contacts and hosted visiting leaders in Kyiv. He also accompanied the president on international missions to secure military and diplomatic support.

Who is Andrey Yermak?

Andriy Yermak was born in Kyiv. He studied international private law at Taras Shevchenko National University. He then started his own law firm in 1997. He began his political career as a legal advisor to Party of Regions MP and former Olympic wrestler Elbrus Tedeev. He also entered the media industry, founding Garnet Media Group in 2012. This group worked on Ukrainian film and television projects.

Became Chief of Staff in 2020

He first met Zelensky in 2011, when he was the general producer of the Inter channel. After Zelensky became president, Yermak was appointed foreign policy aide. Yermak handled prisoner exchanges with Russia and communications with the United States. In 2020, he became Chief of Staff and a member of the National Security Council.

He also became the coordinator of humanitarian affairs after Russia's 2022 invasion. Often seen dressed in military-style attire like Zelensky, Yermak earned the nickname "Green Cardinal." He was then considered virtually co-president, Ukraine's most powerful unelected figure.

What will be the impact of Yamrak's departure?

Recently, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau searched his home as part of an investigation into a scandal in the energy sector, forcing his resignation. This marks the third major blow to Ukraine, following the resignations of two other ministers. Yermak's departure will have a profound impact on Ukraine. He was a champion of wartime politics, maintaining internal discipline.

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