Ukraine has been rocked by widespread protests as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faces mounting criticism over a contentious anti-corruption law. Demonstrators have taken to the streets, accusing the government of undermining judicial independence under the guise of reform.
The legislation, which grants the president greater control over anti-corruption bodies, has drawn sharp condemnation from opposition leaders and Western allies alike. Many fear it could jeopardise Ukraine's fragile democracy and its aspirations for EU membership.
EU-China Relations Under Strain
Meanwhile, tensions flared at the EU-China summit as European leaders confronted Beijing over unfair trade practices and human rights concerns. The meeting, intended to foster cooperation, instead highlighted growing divisions between the economic powers.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned of 'imbalances' in trade relations, while Chinese officials dismissed criticism as 'interference in internal affairs'. The standoff comes amid increasing European scrutiny of Chinese investments in critical infrastructure.
Domestic Unrest Meets Geopolitical Tensions
The simultaneous crises in Ukraine and EU-China relations present significant challenges for European stability:
- Ukrainian protesters vow to continue demonstrations until the law is repealed
- EU officials express concern about backsliding on anti-corruption reforms
- Trade disputes with China threaten to disrupt European supply chains
- Western unity tested by differing approaches to Beijing
As night fell in Kyiv, riot police maintained a heavy presence around government buildings, while in Brussels, diplomats worked late into the night to draft a joint statement that might salvage something from the fractious summit.
