Zelenskyy Defends Controversial Anti-Corruption Bill Amid Protests in Ukraine

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is standing by his decision to endorse a controversial legislative bill that compromises the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies, sparking significant public protests. This legislation, approved by the Verkhovna Rada, grants extensive new powers to the prosecutor general while essentially diminishing the authority of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the specialized anti-corruption prosecutor's office. Many view this as a regression in the fight against corruption, prompting concerns from civil society and veteran groups, as well as discontent among Ukraine's European partners.

Following the parliamentary vote, Zelenskyy signed the bill into law, disregarding requests for a presidential veto. In a late-night video address, he defended the legislation after discussions with Nabu chief Semen Kryvonos and other prosecutors, asserting that anti-corruption agencies would continue their work untainted by external influences. He emphasized the need for justice and accountability in law enforcement, stating, “It’s also important that the prosecutor general be committed to ensuring real accountability for those who break the law.”

Protests erupted shortly after the bill's passage, with around 1,500 demonstrators gathering outside the presidential administration in Kyiv. They expressed their outrage through chants and signs, calling for the president to veto the law. Participants included a diverse group of students, veterans, and notable figures like Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko. Protesters voiced concerns that the bill could jeopardize Ukraine’s potential EU membership and lead the country closer to autocracy. Many called the situation disturbing, drawing eerie parallels to the former regime of Viktor Yanukovych, the ousted pro-Russia president.

The pushback against the bill extended beyond the streets, with soldiers, media personalities, and citizens declaring that civil society must combat governmental corruption. Concerns have been echoed by international figures and diplomats, who recognized the importance of Ukraine’s fight against corruption for its EU aspirations. EU authorities have criticized the legislation, stating that undermining anti-corruption bodies represents a detrimental step backward for the country's progress. The complex dynamics within Ukrainian society during wartime were highlighted by military officials seeking unity against a common enemy, despite internal divisions caused by the legislation.