Kyiv, November 20 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is facing mounting pressure to remove his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, according to reports from political and media sources. The calls for dismissal come amid allegations linked to a corruption scandal in the energy sector, which opponents claim may involve Yermak or his associates.
Officials close to the presidency have indicated that Zelenskyy does not intend to fire Yermak at this stage, though a broader reshuffle of government positions is being considered to ease tensions. Analysts warn that the controversy could evolve into one of Ukraine’s most significant domestic political challenges since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) has launched a large-scale investigation into the matter, with reports suggesting that individuals connected to the scandal operated under the pseudonym “Ali Baba.” While Yermak has not been formally implicated, opposition figures continue to press for accountability at the highest levels.
Yermak, regarded as one of Zelenskyy’s most influential aides, has played a central role in wartime decision-making and international negotiations. His position has made him both indispensable and controversial, with critics accusing him of consolidating excessive power within the presidential office.
The outcome of the dispute is expected to shape Ukraine’s political landscape in the coming weeks, as the government balances internal stability with the need to maintain strong support from Western allies.
