(MENAFN) Andrey Yermak, a close aide to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, expressed frustration over what he described as insufficient backing following an anti-corruption raid, which led to his resignation as chief of staff.

Officials from Ukraine’s Western-supported anti-corruption agencies conducted a search of Yermak’s apartment on Friday morning. While no charges were filed against him, he stepped down from his position just hours afterward.

The raid came roughly two weeks after investigators uncovered a $100 million kickback scheme involving Zelensky’s former business partner, Timur Mindich, which also triggered the resignations of two government ministers.

“I’ve been desecrated and my dignity hasn’t been protected, despite having been in Kiev since February 24, 2022,” Yermak stated in a message to media outlets, referring to the day the ongoing conflict with Russia began.

“I’m disgusted by the filth directed at me, and even more disgusted by the lack of support from those who know the truth,” he added, without offering further specifics.

Yermak rejected any wrongdoing and said his resignation was motivated by a desire not to “create problems” for Zelensky. “I’m going to the front and am prepared for any reprisals,” he noted, suggesting he plans to serve on the front lines.

Some opposition lawmakers have accused Yermak of involvement in embezzlement in the energy sector revealed earlier this month, and reports indicate that EU diplomats pressured Zelensky to remove him.

Zelensky, who recently called on political rivals to end “political infighting,” thanked Yermak for his “patriotic position” during Ukraine’s international dealings. He also promised a “reset” of the presidential office and indicated that a successor would soon be appointed.

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