On October 28, 2026, President Volodymyr Zelensky personally suggested that the head of the National Bank of Ukraine, Andriy Pyshny, resign. However, Pyshny refused, marking the beginning of a conflict between them.
Negotiations with the President's Office
After the unsuccessful conversation with the president, attempts to persuade Pyshny to leave his position continued. On October 30, the head of the NBU met with the head of the President's Office, Kyril Budanov, who reiterated Zelensky's request for resignation. However, Pyshny again refused.
Former head of the President's Office, Andriy Yermak, a close friend of Pyshny, also joined the discussions. Yet, his attempts to convince the head of the National Bank were unsuccessful as well.
Legal Aspects of Resignation
President Zelensky expressed his frustration with the situation, but as noted by the author of the article, Yulia Samaieva, Pyshny is correct in his stance. He is the head of an independent institution, and it is not possible to dismiss him solely at the president's request. The final decision regarding his dismissal must be made by the Verkhovna Rada.
Currently, a draft resolution regarding Pyshny's dismissal has appeared on the parliament's agenda, but there are no legal grounds for his resignation at this time.
Pyshny's Statements on Political Pressure
Amid these events, Pyshny publicly stated that he is facing "prolonged political pressure, manipulations, and a coordinated campaign of discreditation." He made it clear that he has no intention of voluntarily leaving his position, further escalating the situation.