President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has defended his approval of a controversial bill that weakens Ukraine's anti-corruption bodies, despite protests that erupted in Kyiv and other cities. The legislation, passed by the Verkhovna Rada on Tuesday, strips the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office of their independence, granting sweeping powers to the prosecutor general.
Critics argue the bill enables political interference and marks a setback in Ukraine's fight against corruption, potentially harming its European Union aspirations. In his nightly address, Zelenskyy said the bodies would continue to function but must be cleansed of Russian influence. He insisted the prosecutor general would ensure accountability for lawbreakers.
Around 1,500 protesters gathered outside the presidential administration, chanting 'Shame' and 'Veto the law'. Demonstrations also took place in Dnipro, Lviv, and Odesa. Protesters, including students, activists, and war veterans, voiced fears of a return to dictatorship and criticised the move as reminiscent of the Yanukovych era.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko joined the protest, alongside his brother Wladimir. International figures, including former US ambassador Mike McFaul and ex-Estonian president Toomas Hendrik Ilves, expressed concern. Military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov called for dialogue to resolve internal differences, emphasising the common fight against Russia.
