Image Credit: FABRICE COFFRINI / Contributor / Getty Images 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s top adviser has resigned in disgrace over corruption and vowed to head to the frontlines of the war with Russia to redeem himself.
Andriy Yermak tendered his resignation after anti-corruption forces raided his home this week.
On Friday night, he sent messages to The New York Post claiming he was going to join the fighting against the Russians.
“I’m going to the front and am prepared for any reprisals,” Yermak wrote.
“I am an honest and decent person.”
“I served Ukraine and was in Kyiv on February 24, 2022,” he said, referencing the day Russia launched its full-scale war.
“Maybe we’ll see each other again. Glory to Ukraine.”
Yermak added he didn’t want to “create problems for Zelensky.”
Yermak led the Ukrainian delegation in recent negotiations to end the war. The raid on his apartment and his resignation came days before he was due to meet American representatives to continue the negotiations.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner are due to arrive in Ukraine for more talks this weekend.
The raid against Yermak was the result of a long-running investigation into official corruption. Energy contractors were allegedly forced to pay 10-15% kickbacks to avoid being blacklisted.
Investigators believe corrupt officials made $100 million from the scheme.
Zelensky said Yermak’s resignation allowed Kyiv to maintain the confidence and support of the Ukrainian public as it continues peace talks with the US.
“I am grateful to Andriy that Ukraine’s position on the path of negotiations was always presented as required: it was always a patriotic position,” Zelensky said.
“But I want there to be no rumors and speculation.”
“When all attention is focused on diplomacy and defense in a war, internal strength is required,” he added.
