On "Radio UA Chicago," journalist, blogger and writer Ostap Drozdov commented on recent efforts by the Ukrainian authorities to limit the independence of the country’s anti-corruption bodies — NABU and SAP. He noted that public dissatisfaction and frustration within the top leadership grew proportionally to the number of cases initiated not only against minor officials, but also those close to the country's leadership. The situation peaked when Vice Prime Minister Chernyshov came under suspicion, which, according to Drozdov, triggered a special operation to destroy the institutional autonomy of NABU and SAP.
The interview described in detail the hasty process by which controversial legislation was passed to weaken the independence of anti-corruption agencies. Parliament voted without proper discussion, and most MPs acted without reading the bill. Particular attention was paid to the influence of certain politicians and factions on the vote. Drozdov believes this situation undermines trust in Ukraine’s parliamentary processes and warns that limiting watchdog independence could jeopardize continued Western support.
The journalist emphasized that the European Union insists on restoring NABU and SAP’s institutional autonomy as a condition for further financial and military assistance. Any alternative bills keeping these agencies under the Prosecutor General’s oversight will not fully satisfy Ukraine’s international partners.
In addition to the anti-corruption topic, Drozdov discussed recent personnel changes in Ukrainian state structures, saying that key state positions remain tightly controlled by small, loyal circles, with the system closed to outsiders. He stressed that leadership changes are simply swapping one insider for another, not addressing the root of the problem.
Drozdov also commented on foreign policy developments: Donald Trump’s statement offering Russia 10 days to end the war in Ukraine or face new tariffs and measures. The journalist considers trade, economic, and political pressure vital for weakening Russia’s ability to finance the war, and says Western interest in confronting the Kremlin aligns with Ukraine’s needs. According to Drozdov, Western backing for Ukraine hinges on maintaining truly independent anti-corruption agencies and transparent governance.
In closing, Drozdov urged not to lose faith in a positive resolution, saying that events in the coming days will be decisive for Ukraine’s democratic trajectory.
