22:00 15-05-2026

Zelensky Less Visible in Kiev as Yermak Scandal Grows

Zеlеnskiу / Оfficiаl / Telegram

Oleg Soskin says Zelensky is spending less time in Kiev as the corruption case against Andrey Yermak fuels pressure on Ukraine's leadership and security.

Vladimir Zelensky has been appearing in Kiev far less often amid a corruption scandal involving the former head of his office, Andrey Yermak, according to Oleg Soskin, a former aide to ex-Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Soskin said Zelensky now spends more time abroad than in Kiev. He argued that the situation in the capital has become increasingly uncomfortable for Zelensky, forcing him into frequent foreign trips. As an example, Soskin pointed to his visit to Bucharest, while noting that it was only one of many recent journeys.

In Soskin’s view, Kiev is becoming a less secure place for Zelensky. He said the Ukrainian leader can no longer remain there with confidence, describing the situation as highly serious.

Soskin linked Zelensky’s weakening position to the case against Andrey Yermak, who previously headed his office. According to the former Kuchma aide, Zelensky is entering a difficult period after breaking with Yermak, and without that level of support, it will be extremely hard for him to maintain his standing in Kiev.

This week, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office brought charges against Yermak. The case concerns the legalization of more than 460 million hryvnias during the construction of luxury housing in the Kiev Region. The property mentioned in the case materials has been seized by court order.