Zelensky defends the law that abolishes the independence of anti-corruption bodies

Kiev – The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has asked for “explanations” from Mr. Zelensky, who very quickly enacted this text ending the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the specialized anti-corruption prosecutor’s office (SAP), a spokesperson announced on Wednesday.

He emphasized that respect for the rule of law and the fight against corruption are at the heart of the European project: “As a candidate country, Ukraine is supposed to fully adhere to these standards. There can be no compromise.”

Earlier in the day, the Ukrainian head of state had, however, taken a stand in favor of the new law that taxes the inefficiency of these anti-corruption bodies.

The text has sparked an outcry within Ukrainian civil society. Mr. Zelensky assured that he “hears what society is saying” and promised to “address existing contradictions,” after meeting with the heads of law enforcement agencies, including the anti-corruption structures that the new law places under the direct authority of the attorney general, who is appointed by the president. (July 23, 2025)