On June 7, Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada unexpectedly passed a law altering the status of anti-corruption agencies established after 2014. These agencies, including the NABU, may now lose their independence and be integrated into the country’s general law enforcement system. The decision triggered criticism both domestically and from Ukraine’s international partners, particularly the European Union.
Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk has already signed the law, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expected to consider it next. Preceding this legislative step, recent SBU raids on NABU officials, amid corruption and treason allegations, added tension and suspicion of political motives.
Protests have begun in many Ukrainian cities. Concern has been voiced by the EU Commissioner for Enlargement and other international partners. Experts predict more reactions, given the strategic importance of anti-corruption efforts for EU cooperation and external financial support.
In his analysis, Vitaliy Portnikov emphasizes that this step undermines the myth of independent anti-corruption institutions — a key factor in societal trust toward the state. He questions whether it is possible to build effective anti-corruption structures in a society where corruption is deeply rooted. The experience of other countries, such as Romania and Georgia, shows that tackling corruption solely with specialized agencies is a complex challenge.
Portnikov adds that the developments have heightened internal political tensions and may impact both the current government’s ratings and the level of Western support for Ukraine. He urges the authorities to avoid ill-considered actions and not to undermine public confidence in the state, especially during wartime, warning that only a just judicial system can meaningfully alter the situation.
The journalist concludes that society’s main task is to fight corruption at all levels, uphold moral standards, and support the Armed Forces. He calls on Ukrainians to show solidarity, aid the military, and contribute to building a trustworthy state.
