A significant threat to Ukraine's democracy is emerging from within, largely due to the actions of Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff and right-hand man to President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, Yermak has accumulated power rivaling that of President Zelensky, influencing the flow of war information between Kiev's leadership and Western capitals, and promoting a hardline negotiating stance that many analysts consider counterproductive.
Yermak's actions have also led to the sidelining of ministers, as he seeks to control Ukraine's diplomatic channels, further consolidating his power within the Zelensky government.
Policy on Russia–Ukraine seems to vacillate depending on which foreign leader President Donald Trump lately deems the biggest irritant and obstacle to peace: Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky or Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
Author's summary: Andriy Yermak's influence poses a threat to Ukraine's democracy.