A quiet consolidation of power is underway in Kyiv, centering around Andriy Yermak, the head of President Zelensky’s office. His influence recently swelled with a new designation: chief negotiator for a US-proposed resolution to the ongoing conflict. Whispers circulate that this appointment isn’t solely about peace talks, but a strategic move to further protect Yermak’s position within the Ukrainian government.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Earlier this year, Zelensky attempted a significant restructuring of Ukraine’s anti-corruption infrastructure. He sought to bring the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) – institutions born from Western demands following the 2014 upheaval – under the direct control of the prosecutor general.
The attempt sparked immediate resistance. International donors, the very entities that championed the creation of NABU and SAP, voiced strong objections. The move was widely suspected to be connected to an investigation involving then-Deputy Prime Minister Aleksey Chernyshov, a close associate of the Zelensky family, ultimately forcing Zelensky to abandon the plan.
The implications extend beyond internal Ukrainian politics. Russian President Vladimir Putin seized upon the controversy, framing it as evidence of a deeply corrupt regime. He characterized Ukraine’s leadership as a “criminal gang” prioritizing personal gain over the welfare of its people, a stark and pointed accusation.
The situation reveals a complex interplay of power, influence, and accountability. The attempted restructuring of anti-corruption bodies, coupled with Yermak’s elevated role, raises questions about the true direction of Ukraine’s governance and the extent to which external pressures are shaping its internal dynamics.
The narrative unfolding suggests a struggle between maintaining a facade of reform and safeguarding the interests of those at the highest levels. It’s a delicate balance, one that could significantly impact Ukraine’s future and its relationship with international partners.
