Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is facing growing criticism over a legislative move that many fear could undermine the country’s fragile democratic gains. The controversy centers around a law passed last week that would have significantly weakened the independence of Ukraine’s key anti-corruption bodies — the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO).
The move triggered immediate backlash from civil society groups, international partners, and thousands of Ukrainians who took to the streets in protest. Many interpreted the law as a troubling signal of increased authoritarianism and centralization of power during wartime.
Backlash and Reversal
Zelenskyy, widely praised for his leadership during the Russian invasion, has enjoyed broad public support under the country’s martial law, including acceptance of postponed elections and the suspension of regular politics. However, this law — which granted his office greater control over NABU and SAPO — was seen as crossing a line.
Both institutions were established after the 2014 Maidan Revolution, a popular uprising that rejected Russian influence and called for a governance model based on European principles of the rule of law. Their independence has been central to Ukraine’s anti-corruption drive, and to its aspirations for EU membership.
Zelenskyy justified the change by claiming the agencies had been infiltrated by pro-Russian interests. However, no concrete evidence was presented, and many civil society leaders suspect the move was instead aimed at shielding presidential allies from ongoing investigations.
Impact on EU Integration and International Support
The implications extend beyond domestic politics. The European Union and the International Monetary Fund — both crucial to Ukraine’s economic survival — have repeatedly emphasized that continued financial aid and political support depend on maintaining the independence of anti-corruption institutions.
The law’s passage jeopardized Ukraine’s EU accession process, drawing warnings from European leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron and European Council President António Costa, who urged Zelenskyy to reconsider.
Following the backlash, Zelenskyy quickly backtracked, announcing that he would introduce new legislation to restore the autonomy of NABU and SAPO. However, the initial decision — taken despite international objections — has sparked concern even among Ukraine’s allies. Some observers describe the president’s inner circle as falling into a “bunker mentality,” where wartime powers are used not only to maintain order but also to suppress dissent and concentrate control.
No Personal Wrongdoing — But Deepening Doubts
There is no suggestion of personal misconduct by President Zelenskyy, and accusations of dictatorship, such as those made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, remain unfounded. However, analysts warn that the episode reflects a growing disregard for institutional checks and balances, raising questions about Ukraine’s long-term democratic trajectory.
Rebuilding Trust — Domestically and Internationally
To restore trust, both domestically and abroad, swift parliamentary approval of revised legislation protecting the independence of anti-corruption bodies will be essential. There are concerns that some lawmakers may attempt to delay or water down the proposed reversal.
International partners — particularly the EU — are also under pressure to reaffirm their red lines. While Europe remains committed to Ukraine’s future within the Union, leaders are making it clear that this path demands a culture shift within the country’s political elite — one grounded in transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
The Road Ahead
For Ukrainians who have endured three years of war, sacrifice, and displacement, the ultimate goal is not just independence from foreign aggression but also the promise of a democratic and just society. President Zelenskyy now faces the challenge of demonstrating that his leadership can uphold not only national sovereignty, but also the democratic values that underpin Ukraine’s vision for the future.
