Former Zelenskyy Aide Yermak Charged with Money Laundering in Ukraine
Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies have formally charged Andrii Yermak, former Chief of Staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with money laundering. The investigation, part of "Operation Midas," alleges Yermak participated in a scheme laundering approximately $10.5 million through the "Dynasty" luxury construction project near Kyiv. This significant escalation follows his resignation in late 2025 amid broader graft scandals involving energy sector embezzlement. The case intensifies political pressure on Zelenskyy’s administration during the ongoing war with Russia, highlighting persistent challenges in combating high-level corruption while seeking international support and EU integration.
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Former Ukrainian Presidential Office Chief Yermak Released on Bail in Corruption Case
The Supreme Anti-Corruption Court in Ukraine has released Andrij Yermak, the former head of the presidential office, on bail following his arrest on money laundering charges. Yermak was detained for several days before posting bail amounting to approximately 2.72 million euros, which was reportedly collected by his supporters. As a condition of his release, he is prohibited from leaving Ukraine. Yermak, who served as President Volodymyr Zelensky’s close confidant until his dismissal in November, faces allegations of involvement in an organized group laundering nearly nine million euros linked to a luxury construction project near Kyiv. He categorically denies the charges, with his lawyer arguing that the court relied on conjecture rather than evidence. This high-profile case significantly impacts Ukraine’s domestic political landscape, particularly as President Zelensky seeks to reassure Western donors of his commitment to anti-corruption reforms amidst ongoing efforts to join the European Union and defend against Russian aggression. The arrest of such a prominent figure underscores the intensity of current anti-corruption measures in Kyiv.
DIE ZEIT | Nachrichten, News, Hintergründe und DebattenUAH 140M Bail Paid for Former Head of Ukraine's Presidential Office Andriy Yermak
A bail amount of UAH 140 million has been successfully paid for Andriy Yermak, the former head of Ukraine's Presidential Office, following an order by the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC). HACC spokesperson Kateryna Shypilova confirmed the full payment to Ukrinform. This development follows a notice of suspicion served to Yermak on May 11, implicating him in a money laundering scheme involving UAH 460 million linked to the construction of luxury cottages in Kozyn, near Kyiv. Investigators allege that between 2021 and 2025, funds were laundered through a complex financial structure controlled by a businessman who subsequently acquired one of the residences. Six additional individuals were named as suspects in the case on May 12. Although Yermak had previously claimed insufficient funds to cover the bail, the court had mandated custody with the option of release upon payment. The case has drawn further attention due to reports that Yermak holds multiple diplomatic passports and that his border crossing data was allegedly deleted from state systems.
Latest newsFormer Ukrainian Presidential Chief Yermak Appears in Court Over Corruption Charges
Andriy Yermak, the former head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, appeared before the Supreme Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine as a suspect in a major corruption investigation. The probe, conducted by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP), involves alleged money laundering totaling 460 million Ukrainian Hryvnias ($10.5 million). Prosecutors requested Yermak's detention or a bail of 180 million Hryvnias. His lawyer requested time to review case documents, leading Judge Viktor Nogachevskiy to postpone the hearing until the following day. Additionally, SAP President Oleksandr Klimenko revealed that Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, was questioned as a witness in a separate investigation concerning the procurement of unmanned aerial vehicles. Yermak resigned from his post in late 2025 following searches at the Presidential Office. The investigation also identified six other suspects, including a former deputy prime minister, linked to illicit construction activities near Kyiv.
Anadolu Ajansı Güncel HaberlerUkraine Names Zelenskyy's Ex-Chief of Staff as Suspect in Money-Laundering Probe
Ukrainian authorities have officially named Andriy Yermak, the former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as a suspect in an ongoing money-laundering investigation. This development marks a significant turn in Ukrainian domestic politics, given Yermak's status as one of Zelenskyy's most trusted confidants and a powerful figure within the government. Historically, Zelenskyy had resisted persistent pressure from various political factions to replace Yermak, underscoring the close professional and personal relationship between the two men. The announcement of Yermak as a suspect suggests a deepening legal scrutiny surrounding the upper echelons of the Ukrainian administration. This probe highlights the challenges facing Ukraine's governance structures amidst the broader context of national security concerns. The involvement of such a high-profile individual indicates that anti-corruption efforts are extending to the inner circle of the presidency, potentially impacting political stability and public trust. The case is being monitored closely by international observers and domestic stakeholders alike, as it unfolds within the complex legal and political landscape of wartime Ukraine.
Stuff - /Ukraine Names Zelenskyy's Ex-Chief of Staff Suspect in Money-Laundering Probe
Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office have officially named Andriy Yermak, the former Chief of Staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as a suspect in a significant money-laundering investigation. Announced on May 11, 2026, the probe centers on an alleged scheme involving 460 million hryvnia (approximately $10.5 million). Investigators suspect Yermak of laundering funds through construction projects located near Kyiv. Although this designation stops short of formal charges, which could take months to finalize, it marks a critical development in Ukraine's ongoing fight against endemic corruption. Yermak, who resigned in November 2025 amid a scandal that threatened Zelenskyy's government, was previously a trusted confidant and lead negotiator with the United States. The announcement presents a diplomatic challenge for President Zelenskyy as Ukraine seeks European Union membership, a process hindered by concerns over graft. While Zelenskyy has not commented publicly, his press officer stated that the investigation is ongoing and premature conclusions should be avoided. This event underscores the persistent internal political pressures facing Ukraine during its continued conflict with Russia.
News Today: Breaking News, Top Headlines & Live Updates | The HinduZelensky's Former Chief of Staff Charged with Money Laundering in Corruption Probe
Andriy Yermak, the former chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has been formally charged with money laundering as part of a widening corruption investigation in Ukraine. The charges relate to the financing of four luxury properties located outside Kyiv, involving laundered funds exceeding 83 million SEK. Construction on these villas, which feature extensive living areas and amenities, began in 2019 and continued despite the onset of full-scale war in 2022. This development marks a significant escalation in a broader scandal involving bribery for government contracts in the energy sector, estimated at over 930 million SEK, which previously led to the resignations of the Minister of Justice and a former Prime Minister. Recent revelations also suggest the corruption network extends into the defense sector, implicating high-profile figures such as Rustem Umerov, head of the National Security Council. While public pressure mounts for further dismissals within Zelenskyy’s inner circle, the president has not yet acted against Umerov. The scandal highlights corruption as a growing concern among Ukrainians, with recent surveys indicating it is now perceived as a greater threat to the country's long-term development than the ongoing war with Russia.
DN.se - Dagens NyheterZelensky's Ex-Chief of Staff Named in Major Corruption Probe
Ukrainian authorities have named Andriy Yermak, the former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky, as a suspect in a significant corruption investigation. This development adds pressure to the presidential office during a critical phase of the war with Russia. Yermak, previously regarded as Ukraine's second most powerful figure, is suspected of involvement in a criminal group that laundered approximately $10.5 million through an elite housing development near Kyiv. Although anti-graft agencies did not publicly name him due to legal restrictions, local media widely identified him. Yermak denied owning real estate in the project but offered no further comment. This case expands on a broader probe into high-level graft unveiled last November, which included accusations against a former business partner of Zelensky regarding a $100 million kickback scheme at the state atomic agency. Yermak resigned last year amid a government shake-up intended to restore public trust. His role as a key negotiator in peace talks and close adviser to the president highlights the sensitivity of these allegations within Ukraine's political landscape.
The Independent WorldAndriy Yermak, Zelensky's Former Chief of Staff, Suspected of Money Laundering
Andriy Yermak, the former chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, is officially suspected of money laundering by Ukraine’s Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). The allegations stem from a luxury residential complex project named 'Dynasty' near Kyiv, involving an organized group accused of funneling over 460 million hryvnia (approximately 8.9 million euros) through shell companies and forged documents. Yermak, who was dismissed in November following earlier corruption scandals, denies owning any property involved, stating he only possesses an apartment and a car. This case is part of 'Operation Midas,' a broader investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and SAPO that initially targeted embezzlement at the state-owned nuclear operator Energoatom. The scandal has expanded to include other high-profile figures, such as Timur Mindich, who fled to Israel, and former government officials. The revelations have intensified pressure on Zelensky’s administration, highlighting widespread corruption concerns within the presidential circle and related industries, including arms manufacturing and energy infrastructure protection.
Aktuell - FAZ.NETZelensky’s Former Chief of Staff Charged with Money Laundering in Ukraine
Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) have filed money-laundering charges against Andrey Yermak, the former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky. The authorities exposed a criminal group allegedly involved in laundering 460 million hryvnias ($10.5 million) linked to the construction of luxury housing near Kyiv under the project name 'Dynasty.' Investigators assert that Yermak, using pseudonyms, participated in a scheme to build private residences using funds from criminal proceeds and the Sunny Beach cooperative society. The charges, filed under Article 209.3 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, carry a potential prison sentence of eight to fifteen years and property confiscation. NABU investigators conducted searches at Yermak’s residence, and the High Anti-Corruption Court has seized related assets. This development follows 'Operation Midas' and the release of the 'Mindich tapes,' which implicated Yermak and other high-ranking officials in corruption schemes. While Zelensky’s advisor stated it is premature to draw conclusions, Russian officials claim these charges may expose broader corruption within Zelensky’s administration. Yermak has declined to comment on the allegations as legal proceedings commence.
TASSFormer Zelensky Aide Andriy Yermak Suspected of Money Laundering
Ukrainian anti-corruption authorities have formally suspected Andriy Yermak, the former head of the Presidential Office and a close ally of President Volodymyr Zelensky, of money laundering. This development marks a significant escalation in the corruption scandal that previously led to Yermak's resignation in late November 2025. The suspicion follows extensive searches conducted at Yermak's apartment, which were part of the initial investigation into alleged illicit financial activities. As reported by Christoph Wanner for Die Welt, the case highlights ongoing efforts by Ukrainian institutions to address high-level corruption despite the country's ongoing conflict. Yermak, often described as Zelensky's right-hand man, held substantial influence over state affairs during his tenure. His departure from office was a major political event in Ukraine, and these new allegations suggest that legal proceedings are continuing against him. The involvement of top-tier presidential staff in such scandals poses challenges to the Ukrainian government's international image and its commitments to judicial reform. The report underscores the persistent scrutiny faced by Ukrainian political elites by domestic anti-corruption bodies.
Nachrichten - WELTFormer Ukrainian Presidential Chief Andriy Yermak Suspected of Money Laundering
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) have implicated Andriy Yermak, the former head of the Presidential Office, in a significant money laundering scheme. Authorities allege that an organized group, including Yermak, laundered approximately 460 million hryvnias (equivalent to HUF 3 billion) linked to luxury construction projects in the suburbs of Kyiv. Although official announcements did not explicitly name the suspect, Yermak is identified as the former office head who resigned in November 2025 following earlier corruption probes in the energy sector. Recent investigative actions included searches of Yermak’s residence, with evidence shared by Member of Parliament Yaroslav Zheleznyak and various Ukrainian media outlets. Yermak, who served as President Volodymyr Zelenskyi’s closest advisor from February 2020 until his dismissal, was considered the second most influential figure in Ukraine. This development marks a major escalation in anti-corruption efforts within the Ukrainian government, targeting high-level officials previously shielded by their proximity to power.
444Zelenskyy’s Ex-Chief of Staff Accused in Ukraine Corruption Probe
Ukrainian anti-corruption authorities have named Andriy Yermak, the former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as a suspect in a major money laundering investigation. Yermak is alleged to have participated in a criminal group that laundered approximately $10.5 million through an elite housing development near Kyiv, although he denies any ownership interest in the project. This development adds significant pressure to Zelenskyy’s administration during a critical phase of the war with Russia. Yermak, once considered Ukraine’s second most powerful figure and a key negotiator in peace talks, resigned last year following public outrage over broader graft allegations within the government. The current case is part of a wider inquiry into high-level corruption that previously implicated a former business partner of Zelenskyy in a $100 million kickback scheme at the state atomic agency. While agencies did not publicly name Yermak due to legal restrictions, local media widely identified him. His denial was limited to real estate ownership, leaving other aspects of the accusation unaddressed. The situation highlights ongoing challenges in restoring trust in Ukraine’s political leadership amidst external conflict and internal scrutiny.
The GuardianRussian Diplomat Predicts Global Upheaval from Yermak Corruption Scandal
Rodion Miroshnik, a Russian Foreign Ministry Ambassador-at-Large, stated that the indictment of Andrey Yermak, the former head of the Ukrainian presidential office, will trigger significant political upheavals extending beyond Ukraine's borders. Speaking to TASS, Miroshnik characterized the situation as the beginning of a major corruption scandal involving a money laundering operation. He asserted that the implications would reach international leaders whom he described as accomplices in this scheme. The comments follow reports from Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies regarding an organized group accused of laundering $10.5 million through luxury construction projects near Kiev. Yermak has been charged in connection with these activities. Miroshnik emphasized that the scandal cannot be contained within Ukraine and will inevitably impact the reputation of the Zelensky administration in the West. The diplomat's remarks reflect Moscow's narrative framing the Ukrainian government as fundamentally corrupt and implicating its international partners. This development adds to the ongoing diplomatic tensions and information warfare surrounding the conflict, with Russia seeking to undermine Western support for Kiev by highlighting internal legal and ethical controversies within the Ukrainian leadership structure.
TASSZelenskyy's Ex-Chief of Staff Named Suspect in Major Corruption Probe
Ukrainian authorities have officially named Andriy Yermak, the former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as a suspect in a significant corruption investigation. This development intensifies pressure on the presidential office during a critical phase of the war with Russia. Anti-graft agencies allege that Yermak participated in a criminal group responsible for laundering approximately $10.5 million through an elite housing development near Kyiv. Although legal protocols prevented agencies from publicly naming him, local media widely identified Yermak, who subsequently denied owning real estate in the project but offered no further comment. This case is part of a broader probe into high-level graft unveiled last November, which previously implicated a former business partner of Zelenskyy in a $100 million kickback scheme and led to charges against a former deputy prime minister. Yermak, once considered Ukraine's second most powerful figure and a key negotiator in peace talks, resigned last year amid a government shake-up designed to restore public trust. The ongoing investigation highlights persistent challenges regarding centralized power and corruption within Ukraine's political leadership.
Latest articles - The Japan TimesRussian Diplomat: Yermak Indictment Results from Zelensky Ignoring US Signals
Rodion Miroshnik, a Russian Foreign Ministry Ambassador-at-Large, stated that the recent indictment of Andrey Yermak, the former head of the Ukrainian presidential office, is a direct consequence of President Volodymyr Zelensky ignoring warnings from Washington. According to Miroshnik, Zelensky attempted to distance himself from a major corruption scandal through minor resignations and manipulations without altering fundamental budget allocation policies. The diplomat emphasized that officials behind Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies maintain direct ties to the United States, implying US influence over the legal proceedings. This statement follows reports from Ukrainian anti-corruption bodies, specifically NABU and SAP, which uncovered an organized group involved in laundering $10.5 million through luxury construction projects near Kiev. Yermak has been charged as a member of this group. The Russian official interprets these developments as evidence of Zelensky's failure to address systemic issues despite external pressure, highlighting the geopolitical dimensions of internal Ukrainian legal actions amidst the ongoing conflict.
TASSUkraine's Former Presidential Chief of Staff Suspected in Money Laundering Case
Andriy Yermak, the former head of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office, has been classified as a suspect in a money laundering investigation by Ukrainian anti-corruption authorities. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP) allege that Yermak was part of a criminal organization that laundered nearly nine million euros through a luxury residential project located outside Kyiv. Although official statements did not explicitly name him, local media identified Yermak as the suspect. He has denied owning any real estate in the implicated project but offered no further commentary. This development is part of a broader probe into high-level corruption that intensified last November, which also involved allegations against a former business partner of Zelensky regarding bribery at the state atomic energy authority. Yermak, who served as Zelensky’s chief of staff from 2020 until his resignation in late 2025, was previously considered the second most powerful figure in Ukraine and a key negotiator in peace talks. President Zelensky’s office has stated it is too early to comment on these latest suspicions, maintaining silence as the investigation continues to unfold amidst ongoing political scrutiny.
DIE ZEIT | Nachrichten, News, Hintergründe und DebattenFormer Zelenskyy Chief of Staff Suspected in Major Money Laundering Probe
Andriy Yermak, the former chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, is under suspicion in a significant money laundering investigation led by Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). Authorities exposed an organized group involved in legalizing 460 million hryvnia through luxury construction projects near Kyiv. Although official statements did not name Yermak directly, he confirmed being informed of the suspicion and declined further comment until the investigation concludes. This development, part of 'Operation Midas,' intensifies scrutiny on Zelenskyy’s administration, linking it to broader corruption scandals involving energy infrastructure funds. Key figures implicated include Tymur Mindich, who fled the country, and former Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko, who was detained while attempting to leave Ukraine. The scandal has resulted in the resignation or charging of several high-ranking officials, including former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov. These events have exacerbated public distrust and complicated Western aid efforts amid Russia’s ongoing invasion, highlighting persistent challenges in Ukraine’s fight against entrenched public sector corruption.
Radio Free Europe / Radio LibertyFormer Top Zelensky Aide Accused in Corruption Inquiry
Ukrainian news outlets have identified Andriy Yermak, a former top aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky, as the suspect in a significant corruption inquiry. Yermak, who held a prominent position within the Ukrainian presidential administration, resigned from his post last year amidst a sweeping scandal that drew considerable public and media attention. This recent development highlights ongoing efforts within Ukraine to address internal corruption issues, even as the country continues to face external military challenges. The identification of such a high-profile figure underscores the severity of the allegations and the potential political ramifications for the current administration. As investigations proceed, the case remains a focal point for both domestic observers and international partners monitoring governance and accountability in Ukraine. The involvement of former senior officials in corruption scandals continues to be a critical issue affecting Ukraine's political landscape and its relationships with Western allies who emphasize transparency and rule of law as conditions for continued support.
NYT > World NewsZelenskiy's Ex-Chief of Staff Named Suspect in Major Corruption Probe
Ukrainian authorities have officially named Andriy Yermak, the former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, as a suspect in a significant corruption investigation. This development intensifies pressure on the presidential office during a critical phase of the ongoing war with Russia. Anti-graft agencies allege that Yermak participated in a criminal group responsible for laundering approximately $10.5 million through an elite housing development near Kyiv. Although legal protocols prevented agencies from explicitly naming him in their initial statement, local media widely identified him. Yermak has denied owning real estate in the implicated development but offered no further comment. This case expands upon a broader probe into high-level graft unveiled last November, which previously implicated a former business partner of Zelenskiy in a $100 million kickback scheme at the state atomic agency. Yermak, once considered Ukraine's second most powerful figure and a key negotiator in peace talks, resigned last year amid public anger over centralized power and corruption allegations. The current charges mark a continued effort by Kyiv to address internal graft issues while maintaining international support amidst the conflict.
The Straits Times World NewsKyiv Prosecutors Uncover Real Estate Scam Involving Zelensky's Former Chief of Staff
Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) has announced the dismantling of an organized criminal group involved in laundering approximately 460 million hryvnias (8.8 million euros) through a luxury real estate project near Kyiv. According to local media reports cited by AFP, the scheme involves Andrii Iermak, the former head of the Office of the President of Ukraine under Volodymyr Zelensky. NABU confirmed that a former high-ranking presidential official, identified as Iermak, has been informed of the charges against him. Iermak previously resigned from his position in November 2020 following office searches, amidst what was described as a major corruption scandal during Zelensky's mandate. This development follows recent anti-corruption actions in late 2025, including indictments related to the state nuclear company Energoatom and the dismissal of key government ministers. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Ukrainian authorities to address high-level corruption within the political establishment surrounding the presidency.
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