The Ukrainian parliament has registered a new bill aimed at restoring the independence of NABU (National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine) and SAPO (Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office). The bill seeks to return procedural powers and independence guarantees to these anti-corruption agencies. Recent public protests in several cities revealed dissatisfaction with the Presidential Office's approach to the anti-corruption system. Demonstrators distanced themselves from provocations during the rallies.
According to the heads of NABU and SAPO, passing the bill will mitigate risks to ongoing investigations and strengthen internal control by NABU. The legislation includes polygraph tests for employees with access to state secrets. NABU and SAPO directly participated in drafting the bill, underscoring its consensus-driven nature.
Internationally, the US has announced it will cease ceasefire negotiations with Hamas regarding Gaza, while France declared its intention to officially recognize Palestine. President Macron emphasized the need to demilitarize Hamas and ensure Gaza’s security, prompting varied reactions worldwide. Israel has criticized France’s move, while Hamas welcomed it.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones reportedly struck targets in Russia, disrupting operations at Sochi airport and facilities in Taganrog, Nevinnomyssk, Slavyansk-on-Kuban, and Kotovsk, causing fires and delays at critical infrastructure sites.
On the aid front, the US authorized new military support packages for Ukraine totaling $330 million. The EU held talks with China to discuss its stance on the war, with global attention increasingly shifting to China's role.
Debates continue about the future effectiveness of Ukraine’s anti-corruption infrastructure, with calls for greater efficiency from NABU and SAPO. These developments illustrate growing international and domestic scrutiny of Ukraine’s war and anti-corruption efforts.
