**EU Urges Ukraine to Strengthen Anti-Corruption Agencies Amid Push for Quick Legislation**
In a significant move, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to uphold the independence of the country’s anti-corruption bodies. This call comes after Zelensky signaled that supporting legislation could be adopted within days.
Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of preserving independent anti-corruption agencies, which are crucial for Ukraine’s rule of law. She made her statement on X (formerly Twitter) following a conversation with Zelensky. The Ukrainian president responded by posting on X as well, confirming his alignment with the European Commission’s vision.
“I thanked the European Commission for the provided expertise,” Zelensky wrote. “We share the same vision: it is essential that the bill is adopted without delay, as early as next week.” Von der Leyen further pledged the European Union’s ongoing support for Ukraine’s aspirations for EU membership, stating, “Ukraine can count on our support to deliver progress on its European path.”
This development marks a significant reversal for Zelensky. Just days ago, he had submitted a bill designed to restore the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO). However, his earlier legislative attempt aimed to strip these critical anti-corruption agencies of their autonomy, prompting widespread public criticism.
Zelensky had initially defended the original bill as a wartime necessity, portraying Russia as the nation’s “main enemy.” However, his explanation has not withstood scrutiny. Some observers in Ukraine suggest that the timing was significant, noting that NABU and SAPO had begun probing individuals close to the president and his inner circle.
**The Significance of This Move**
The EU’s call for Ukraine to strengthen its anti-corruption agencies is a crucial step towards ensuring the country’s rule of law. The independence of these bodies is essential for combating corruption and holding officials accountable. By upholding their independence, Ukraine can demonstrate its commitment to transparency and accountability, which are cornerstones of any functioning democracy.
This move also highlights the ongoing tensions within Ukraine between those who value democratic principles and those who prioritize short-term gains. As Zelensky navigates this complex landscape, it remains to be seen whether his administration will genuinely prioritize reform or continue to favor a more authoritarian approach.
**What’s Next?**
The adoption of legislation to safeguard the independence of NABU and SAPO could have significant implications for Ukraine’s future. If successful, it would demonstrate the country’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring accountability among officials. However, if the process is marred by undue influence or backroom deals, it may undermine trust in the government and perpetuate corruption.
The EU’s continued support for Ukraine’s aspirations for EU membership remains a critical factor in this equation. By pledging their backing, the European Commission has provided an essential boost to Zelensky’s efforts. However, only time will tell whether this momentum can be sustained and whether genuine reform will take hold.
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