On July 23, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the preparation of a new bill aimed at strengthening the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP). This decision responds to strong criticism from Western partners and Ukrainian civil society regarding the recent parliamentary vote that restricted the autonomy of these anti-corruption bodies and threatened international financial support for Ukraine.
Zelensky indicated that the parliament will consider the new bill next week. This legislative initiative was welcomed by EU leaders and Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis, as well as France and Germany, who emphasized the key role of NABU and SAP in fighting corruption and advancing reforms. The curtailment of these agencies' independence had also drawn criticism from Ukraine's US partners.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi stated that Ukraine is preparing for a possible counteroffensive but stressed that more Western military aid is essential. Syrskyi appealed directly to Donald Trump, asking for long-range missiles and modern weaponry to bolster Ukraine's defense and offensive capabilities. He acknowledged shortages in air defense, missiles, artillery shells, and highlighted ongoing mobilization challenges.
Peace talks have begun in Turkey with delegations from Ukraine and Russia. The Ukrainian delegation, headed by National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, is tasked mainly with organizing a possible meeting between Zelensky and Putin. Russian representatives are focusing on drafting joint memoranda and discussing the exchange of prisoners.
The US and its European allies continue deliberations on providing Patriot air defense systems and other weaponry to Ukraine. Negotiations with Germany are ongoing regarding timelines for delivery. US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker stated that China is pursuing a proxy war against Ukraine through Russia and should be held accountable for subsidizing the conflict.
Domestically, political tensions remain high. Zelensky intends to soon submit the new bill to parliament and stresses the need for clear action plans in the fight against corruption. Europe and the US are urging Ukraine to guarantee transparency, maintain the independence of anti-corruption agencies, and advance reform efforts.
