Corruption Scandal: Ex-Chief of Staff Under Scrutiny in Major Graft Probe

Ukraine's fight against corruption has taken a significant turn as national agencies named Andriy Yermak, former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as a suspect in a major graft investigation.

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office disclosed late Monday that Yermak is under suspicion in a 460-million-hryvnia (USD 10.5 million) money-laundering scheme. The probe casts a shadow over Zelenskyy's administration during a crucial period as Ukraine seeks EU membership.

Amid the scandal, President Zelenskyy has remained silent, although a spokesperson indicated that the investigation is continuing. Investigators focused on construction projects near Kyiv and searched Yermak's home in November, but formal charges may still be months away.

(With inputs from agencies.)