Ukrainian Court Lifts Monitoring Restrictions on Former Chief of Staff
A High Anti-Corruption Court ruling allows Andriy Yermak to stop wearing an electronic bracelet, a decision that has intensified scrutiny over his ongoing political ties despite his formal resignation.
A Ukrainian court on September 15 granted permission for Andriy Yermak, the former head of the President’s Office, to discontinue the use of an electronic monitoring device. The High Anti-Corruption Court cited medical grounds for the decision but did not provide specific details regarding the health conditions that necessitated the change.
This legal adjustment occurs against a backdrop of persistent media reports suggesting that Yermak retains significant influence over President Volodymyr Zelensky. Although Yermak resigned in November 2025 following searches related to a major corruption investigation, multiple outlets have documented his continued interactions with top officials and involvement in political maneuvering.
Medical Justification for Device Removal
According to the Kyiv Independent, the court’s decision followed an earlier ruling in August that had already eased travel restrictions on Yermak. Previously, he was required to obtain investigator approval to leave Kyiv Oblast, but the court later permitted travel to several other regions. The current ruling specifically addresses the electronic bracelet, a standard preventive measure used to monitor suspects.
Legal experts note that certain medical conditions, such as having a pacemaker or risks of blood clots, can prevent the use of such devices. Tetiana Shevchuk, a lawyer at the Anti-Corruption Action Center, commented on the timing of the health justification, suggesting that the stress of being under suspicion may lead to sudden health claims. She emphasized that while law enforcement can still monitor suspects without electronic means, the absence of a bracelet complicates oversight, particularly when suspects have state-provided security.
Alleged Influence Despite Resignation
Yermak was charged in May with money laundering linked to the construction of a luxury residential compound outside Kyiv. This case is part of a broader investigation into an alleged $100 million corruption scheme involving state nuclear power company Energoatom, which remains the largest corruption probe of Zelensky’s tenure. Following searches of his office in November 2025, Yermak stepped down from his post but was released on bail of $3.1 million in May.
Reports from Ukrainian news outlets indicate that Yermak has maintained regular communication with the president and met with senior officials since his resignation. In January, he resumed his legal practice and later became head of a committee for the National Association of Lawyers. These activities have fueled speculation about his continued role in the political sphere, despite his official status as a suspect in a major criminal case.
Questions Surrounding Legal Representation
Further scrutiny has focused on the movements of Yermak’s legal team. In January, his lawyer Ihor Fomin traveled to Tel Aviv, where he reportedly met with an Israeli lawyer who provides services to Timur Mindich, the alleged ringleader of the Energoatom scheme. Fomin confirmed the meeting but declined to comment on the nature of the discussions. Such connections have raised questions about the interplay between legal defense strategies and the broader political dynamics surrounding the investigation.
The Kyiv Independent has reached out to Yermak for comment on the court ruling and the allegations of continued influence. His lawyer also declined to provide further details on recent meetings or the specific medical grounds cited by the court. As the investigation proceeds, observers will closely watch whether Yermak’s legal status continues to evolve and how his alleged connections to state security and political leadership are addressed in future judicial proceedings.
