The European Commission has reiterated its confidence in the authenticity of reports suggesting communication between EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concerning the operations of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO). The statement comes amid heightened scrutiny of anti-corruption bodies in both regions, with officials emphasizing the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in these institutions.
Reports have indicated that the discussions between von der Leyen and Zelenskyy are aimed at ensuring the effectiveness and independence of anti-corruption mechanisms, particularly in the context of ongoing investigations into allegations of corruption within Ukraine’s government. The Commission has not provided specific details about the nature of the communications, but its stance reinforces the importance of international cooperation in combating corruption.
Zelenskyy has consistently defended the integrity of NABU and SAPO, which have been at the center of various legal and political controversies. The EU’s support for these bodies is seen as a critical part of its broader strategy to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law in Ukraine. The Commission’s affirmation of the reliability of the information aligns with its commitment to upholding European values and promoting transparency in governance.