Zelenskiy Moves to Preserve Anti-Corruption Independence Amidst Criticism

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy approved draft legislation ensuring the independence of anti-corruption agencies, reversing control measures that had sparked protests and threatened Ukraine's EU aspirations. Critics decried political influence over the agencies. Zelenskiy asserts the new bill strengthens law enforcement and protects against Russian influence.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy approved draft legislation on Thursday to restore the independence of the country's anti-corruption agencies. This move comes after significant public criticism of recent measures that increased control by the prosecutor general, leading to rare protests even during wartime.

The measures, which had placed Zelenskiy-appointed prosecutors over the agencies, drew harsh opposition, with critics arguing they amounted to political pressure. Zelenskiy reassured citizens on X, stating that the draft legislation, set for parliamentary submission, ensures strengthened law enforcement and protection from Russian influence.

The developments raised concern among European officials about Ukraine's EU aspirations. Despite the controversy, Zelenskiy's initiative marks a pivotal step in addressing public dissent, with opposition lawmakers seeking to revoke the earlier restrictive measures and potential parliamentary debates looming.

(With inputs from agencies.)