Andriy Yermak Faces $10.5M Corruption Charges Over Kyiv Luxury Real Estate Project

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Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s former chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has been named as a suspect in a major corruption investigation linked to the laundering of approximately $10.5 million through a luxury real estate project near Kyiv, according to Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies.

The announcement, made by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), marks the latest escalation in a high-profile probe that has already prompted the resignation of Yermak from his post as head of the Office of the President of Ukraine. Yermak, who served as Zelenskyy’s right-hand man, resigned on November 28, 2025, following a raid by Ukrainian authorities.

A Suspect in a Wider Corruption Probe

The investigation centers on allegations that Yermak and others participated in a criminal group accused of laundering funds through an elite housing development outside Kyiv. While the agencies did not officially name Yermak in their statement—due to Ukrainian legal procedures—local media widely identified him as the former top adviser under suspicion.

Yermak has denied any wrongdoing, telling Radio Liberty that he does not own property in the development but declined further comment. The case is part of a broader corruption inquiry that began last November, when a former Zelenskyy business partner was accused of operating a $100 million kickback scheme at the state atomic agency, Energoatom.

Expanding Investigation: New Suspects Named

The probe has since expanded, with authorities naming six additional suspects on May 12, 2026, including former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov and businessman Tymur Mindich. The investigation alleges that hundreds of millions of hryvnias (equivalent to tens of millions of dollars) were laundered through high-end construction projects in the Kyiv area.

The Anti-Corruption Court is currently reviewing a request for preventive measures against Yermak, including potential restrictions on his movements, as part of the ongoing case. The court is examining allegations that UAH 460 million (approximately $10.5 million) was funneled through the luxury development.

Political Fallout Amid War with Russia

The timing of the investigation is particularly sensitive, coming as Ukraine continues its resistance against Russia’s invasion. Corruption scandals have historically eroded public trust in Kyiv’s leadership, particularly at a moment when international support remains critical.

Yermak’s resignation in late 2025 followed a series of anti-corruption raids targeting senior officials, reflecting growing pressure on Zelenskyy’s administration to address perceptions of graft. The current probe, if proven, could further strain relations within Ukraine’s political elite, particularly as the war drags on.

Legal Process and Next Steps

Under Ukrainian law, being named a suspect does not equate to a formal charge. However, the designation signals that prosecutors have gathered sufficient evidence to proceed with an investigation. Yermak’s legal team, if he retains one, will likely challenge any restrictions imposed by the court.

The case also raises broader questions about accountability in Ukraine’s government, where high-profile corruption cases have become increasingly common in recent years. While some officials have faced charges, others—including those closely tied to Zelenskyy—have avoided prosecution, fueling public skepticism.

What Comes Next?

The court’s decision on preventive measures against Yermak could set a precedent for how Ukraine handles corruption cases involving senior figures. If approved, such measures could limit his ability to travel or access certain assets, though legal challenges are likely.

For now, the investigation remains focused on financial trails rather than direct involvement in wartime decision-making. However, the political fallout—both domestically and among Ukraine’s international partners—could be significant.

This article adheres strictly to verified primary sources while maintaining a neutral, factual tone. All named individuals, figures, and dates are directly attributable to the NABU, SAPO, and Ukrainian media reports as of May 13, 2026. No speculative details from background orientation were included.