Opposition lawmaker Lesia Vasylenko believes Yermak’s exit demonstrates a zero-tolerance stance on corruption, highlighting the president’s responsiveness to public concerns. Some viewed his departure positively.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy now faces U.S. negotiations over President Donald Trump’s controversial “peace plan” regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine without his producer. | Ihor Kuznietsov/Getty Images
However, some opposition figures question if Zelenskyy will use this opportunity to adopt more inclusive politics.
Former Deputy Prime Minister Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze expressed uncertainty about any change in Zelenskyy’s governance style. “The key question is whether governing will return to constitutional norms, allowing parliament to regain its authority,” she said.
“This involves the president engaging with all factions, reassessing parliamentary relationships, and establishing a true national unity government accountable to parliament, not the presidential office,” she added.
Iuliia Mendel, a Ukrainian journalist and former Zelenskyy adviser-turned-critic, described Yermak’s resignation as “a desperate reaction to unbearable pressure.”
“Zelenskyy lacks a ready replacement, not anticipating events to escalate this far. Ultimately, he chose between himself and Yermak, opting for self-preservation,” she noted.
Despite this, Mendel doubts significant change will occur. “Yermak might still operate behind the scenes,” she cautioned.
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