Turbulence in Kyiv: Anti-Corruption Forces Escalate Tensions

Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies have searched the home of Andriy Yermak, President Zelenskiy's chief of staff. This escalates political tensions as Kyiv faces pressure to agree to a peace deal. The search is linked to an unspecified investigation and a recent $100 million kickback scheme.

Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies intensified political tensions by searching the residence of Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's influential chief of staff. This move comes amid escalating pressure from Washington for Ukraine to negotiate a peace deal with Russia.

Yermak, who affirmed his cooperation with the investigation, leads Kyiv's negotiating team and has been a longtime ally of Zelenskiy. The search is part of a broader investigation into alleged large-scale corruption at a state atomic energy company. Yermak has not been formally accused but is under scrutiny, with some politicians calling for his dismissal.

The raids are expected to strain relations between Zelenskiy and opposition parties, as major political forces urge transparency in the ongoing negotiations. The U.S.-backed peace efforts could require Ukraine to make significant territorial concessions to Russia, complicating the political landscape further.

(With inputs from agencies.)