**Dark Hour for Ukrainian Democracy**
In a shocking turn of events, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a bill that undermines the independence of the country’s key anti-corruption bodies. This move is a clear attack on democratic institutions and a sign that Zelensky is using his power to protect himself and his associates from investigation.
**The Attack on Anti-Corruption Agencies**
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) have been instrumental in investigating high-level corruption cases, including those involving Zelensky’s own party members. By stripping them of their independence, Zelensky has effectively given himself the power to stop investigations with a phone call.
**A Pattern of Crackdowns**
This move is part of a larger pattern of crackdowns on dissent and opposition in Ukraine. Just last week, dozens of NABU officers’ homes were raided, with some searches turning violent. Anti-corruption activist and outspoken critic of Zelensky, has been subjected to escalated prosecution.
**The War on Democracy**
This is not an isolated incident, but rather a deliberate attempt by Zelensky to undermine Ukrainian democratic institutions in pursuit of expanding his personal power. The backdrop of the war has made it easier for him to get away with this, as there are no elections and no mass street protests.
**The West Must Act**
Historically, Ukraine’s Western partners have been key in pushing reluctant officials to carry out reforms, including anti-corruption and law enforcement. However, since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, the West has largely refrained from pushing for reforms, prioritizing a smooth relationship with Ukraine’s leadership.
**It’s Not Too Late**
But it is not too late for Western partners to step in and condition Ukrainian leadership to protect democracy. Military aid should not be conditioned on democratic progress, but the West can still signal that a backslide into autocracy will have consequences.
**Ukraine’s Democracy Can Still Be Salvaged**
If there is no reaction from the West, it is likely that Ukraine’s democracy will continue to erode. Independent media and other elements of the anti-corruption infrastructure could be next on the menu. But for now, Ukrainians are fighting – and dying – for Europe and the whole free world. Will the West hold the line for them?
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