The Inside Story Podcast What does the resignation of Zelenskyy's top aide mean for Ukraine?
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Nov 29, 2025 Olena Tregub, a transparency expert and Secretary-General of Ukraine’s Independent Anti-Corruption Commission, sheds light on institutional reforms and public expectations. Leonid Ragozin, an independent journalist, analyzes the political fallout of the investigation's timing on peace talks with Russia. Donnacha Ó Beacháin, a politics professor, discusses the reputational risks for Zelensky and how Russia might exploit the scandal. The trio contemplates whether this upheaval could strengthen Western ties or impact Ukraine's internal dynamics.
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Resignation Shows Both Risk And Institutional Strength
- The Yermak resignation is both reputational damage and a sign of functioning Ukrainian anti-corruption institutions.
- Donnacha Ó Beacháin argues exposure by domestic bodies can be framed as a success, not only a weakness.
Timing Amplifies Political Risk
- The timing of the investigation amplifies political risk because it coincides with delicate peace negotiations.
- Leonid Ragozin warns the allegations are hard to separate from ongoing talks and weaken Zelensky's position.
Investigation Reinforces Rule Of Law
- Olena Tregub says independent institutions demonstrate rule of law by probing the president's inner circle.
- She argues Zelensky's reaction to remove implicated allies strengthens democratic norms domestically.