Bail Set at 140 Million Hryvnias for Former Presidential Office Head Yermak

Preventive Measure for Andriy Yermak

According to Главком: Andriy Yermak, the former head of the President's Office, has been ordered by Ukraine's High Anti-Corruption Court to be held in custody unless he posts bail of 140 million hryvnias. This measure stems from allegations that Yermak laundered 460 million hryvnias during the construction of the Dynasty cottage complex. Although the bail money has been collected, it could not be fully transferred due to banks being closed at the time.

By the evening of May 15, the required amount had been raised, but the transfer was impossible because banking institutions had shut down for the day. According to Glavkom, around 200 separate payments were made to gather the bail, totaling over 154 million hryvnias. Some of these contributions were as small as one kopeck each.

• Conditions while on bail include:
• a ban on leaving Kyiv without permission from the court or investigator;
• surrendering foreign passports;
• avoiding contact with other suspects, such as Oleksiy Chernyshov and Timur Mindich.

Charges and Case Background

Prosecutors allege that in 2020, Yermak conspired with Mindich and Chernyshov to build the Dynasty cottages, using funds that investigators believe were obtained through criminal activity. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) formally notified Yermak of his suspicion in this case, which involves legitimizing those funds during the construction of an upscale cottage village in the village of Kozyn, Kyiv region. These funds are thought to be linked to corruption schemes connected to the state nuclear energy company, Energoatom.

Yermak has stated that he personally does not have the money for bail and hopes friends and acquaintances will help. He also claims the case is being pursued under pressure and denies any involvement with the Dynasty cottage complex, adding that he will provide detailed comments once the investigation concludes. His lawyer, Ihor Fomin, considers the charges unfounded.

This case draws attention not only because of Yermak's status as a former high-ranking official but also due to its significance for Ukraine's broader anti-corruption efforts. The bail process and subsequent legal steps could shape public trust in anti-corruption institutions and influence the country's political landscape. Observers are watching closely for further developments, as this case may set a key precedent in Ukraine's fight against corruption.

As the situation unfolds, the legal troubles for Andriy Yermak deepen, with serious allegations surrounding his financial dealings. For a more comprehensive look at the charges against him, including details about the alleged money laundering scheme involving significant sums, you can read more in our article on the formal accusations of laundering 460 million UAH.