European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called on Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky to address concerns over a recent crackdown on the country’s anti-corruption agencies. The move, which placed the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) under the control of the Prosecutor General—a political appointee—has sparked nationwide protests and led to widespread international criticism. These agencies had played a pivotal role in Ukraine’s efforts to meet conditions for EU membership and continue to receive Western aid. Von der Leyen conveyed her concerns through her spokesman, Guillaume Mercier, who emphasized the need for ‘respect for the rule of law’ and the ‘fight against corruption,’ stating that there ‘cannot be a compromise.’
The legislation, passed by the Ukrainian parliament on Tuesday and signed by Zelensky hours later, has been seen as a significant threat to Ukraine’s anti-corruption mechanisms. The law, which followed security raids on NABU in light of Zelensky’s claims of Russian influence, has been criticized for potentially weakening the effectiveness of these institutions. Mercier pointed out that the law ‘risks strongly weakening the competences and powers of anti-corruption institutions of Ukraine.’ This development has also raised concerns among other European officials, such as European Council President Antonio Costa, who reportedly voiced his concerns to Zelensky, and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who called the move ‘hampers Ukraine’s way towards the EU.’
The creation of NABU and SAP was part of requirements set by the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund more than a decade ago to address high-level corruption in Ukraine. Since their establishment, these agencies have led major investigations, including those into the inner circles of Zelensky. However, the recent law has stripped them of the guarantees that allowed them to operate effectively. EU Economy Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis further highlighted the importance of transparency, judicial reforms, and democratic governance in maintaining financial aid to Ukraine. Notably, Ukraine was ranked 105th out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, underscoring the ongoing challenges in the fight against corruption. The international response to these developments signals a growing concern about the stability and integrity of Ukraine’s institutional framework and its ability to meet the requirements for closer integration with the European Union.