The Andriy Yermak resignation has sent shockwaves through the corridors of power in Kyiv, marking the end of an era for President Volodymyr Zelensky’s inner circle. On Friday, November 28, 2025, the man widely regarded as the “Green Cardinal”—and effectively the second most powerful figure in wartime Ukraine—announced his departure from the government. In a defiant parting shot, Yermak declared he is fully “prepared for any reprisals,” hinting at the turbulent political storm that may follow his exit.
“Prepared for Reprisals”: Yermak’s Defiant Stance
The announcement was not a quiet fade into the background. Upon submitting his resignation, Andriy Yermak addressed the swirling rumors of investigations and political vendettas head-on. His statement suggests that he anticipates legal or political challenges in the wake of his departure.
“I have done my job,” sources quote the former Chief of Staff. “I am prepared for any reprisals.”
This choice of words indicates deep fractures within the Ukrainian political elite. For years, Yermak was untouchable, controlling access to the President and overseeing everything from international negotiations to prisoner exchanges. His resignation signals that the protective shield around him has finally cracked, leaving him vulnerable to opponents who have long criticized his consolidation of power.
The “Green Cardinal” Steps Down
To understand the magnitude of the Andriy Yermak resignation, one must understand his role. He was never just a secretary. Critics and supporters alike referred to him as the “Green Cardinal” (a play on the grey cardinal trope and Zelensky’s party colors). Since 2020, and especially throughout the war, Yermak was the gatekeeper.
His departure leaves a massive power vacuum. For President Zelensky, this is a critical juncture. Losing his right-hand man—who managed the grueling day-to-day operations of the state during the height of the conflict—could either paralyze the administration or offer a chance for a necessary “reset” demanded by civil society and Western partners.
Why Now? The Context of 2025
The timing of this shakeup is critical. By late 2025, Ukraine faces a complex landscape of war fatigue, economic strain, and evolving international pressure.
- Internal Pressure: Civil society activists and investigative journalists have long targeted Yermak, accusing his office of overreach and opacity.
- Western Influence: With shifting political tides in the United States and Europe, there has been increasing pressure on Kyiv to demonstrate transparency and tackle high-level corruption. The Andriy Yermak resignation may be a concession to these international demands.
- Strategic Reset: Rumors suggest Zelensky is preparing for a new phase of governance, possibly pivoting toward peace negotiations or a different military strategy, requiring a fresh team unburdened by past controversies.
Opposition Reactions and Public Sentiment
The reaction in Kyiv has been mixed but intense. Political opponents, who have accused Yermak of usurping constitutional powers, viewed the news with cautious celebration. “The monopoly on power is broken,” one opposition MP tweeted. However, supporters worry that removing such a central figure could destabilize the government’s command structure at a precarious moment in the war.
What the Data Reveals About Political Stability
Historically, the resignation of a Chief of Staff in Ukraine is a precursor to broader cabinet shuffles.
- Cabinet Vulnerability: Analysts predict that at least three ministers loyal to Yermak may follow him out the door within the week.
- Approval Ratings: President Zelensky’s approval ratings, while resilient, have fluctuated in 2025. This move could be a calculated gamble to boost public trust by removing a polarizing figure.
Future Implications: A New Chapter for Kyiv?
The Andriy Yermak resignation is not just a personnel change; it is a system reset. The focus now shifts to who will replace him. The successor will inherit a grueling portfolio: managing the war effort, maintaining the fragile coalition of Western support, and navigating the treacherous waters of domestic politics.
As for Yermak, his statement about “reprisals” suggests his battle is far from over. Whether he faces parliamentary inquiries or legal charges remains to be seen, but his exit marks the definitive end of the “duumvirate” that ruled Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began.
Conclusion
The Andriy Yermak resignation is a defining moment in Ukraine’s 2025 political landscape. The “Green Cardinal” has left the building, but his defiant warning of “reprisals” ensures that the drama is far from finished. As President Zelensky moves to fill this void, the world watches closely to see if this departure strengthens Ukraine’s democracy or triggers a period of instability. One thing is certain: the power dynamic in Kyiv has changed irrevocably.
