US Senator Lindsey Graham has publicly criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for signing an anti-corruption law, calling on Kyiv to reconsider the measure. Graham claimed that the law is being leveraged by opponents of Ukraine’s support as one of the most commonly cited reasons to end military and financial aid, implying that the country still suffers from widespread corruption.
Graham, a prominent member of the Republican Party, has long advocated for continued US military and financial support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. His comments come as part of a broader debate within the US Congress over the extent of aid to Ukraine, with some lawmakers arguing that the country needs to demonstrate greater transparency and accountability in its governance.
Zelensky’s administration has defended the law, stating that it represents a significant step toward strengthening Ukraine’s institutions and reducing corruption. The law aims to enhance transparency in public contracts, increase oversight of government officials, and implement stricter anti-bribery measures. However, critics like Graham argue that the implementation of such measures has been inconsistent, and that the law does not address systemic issues within Ukraine’s bureaucracy.
The criticism from Graham highlights the ongoing challenges in securing sustained international support for Ukraine, particularly as the war enters its third year and the financial and human toll continues to mount. For the US, this debate underscores the tension between providing aid to a beleaguered ally and ensuring that such aid is used responsibly and transparently.