Ukraine’s government is under increasing pressure after President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a new law reducing the independence of two key anti-corruption bodies.
The move sparked mass protests in Kyiv and other major cities, raising concerns about Ukraine’s future relationship with the European Union.
The law places the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) under the control of the prosecutor general, an official appointed by the president.
Critics argue this change could weaken oversight and allow political interference in anti-corruption efforts.
On Tuesday night, thousands gathered in front of the president’s office in Kyiv. Protests continued into Wednesday, with demonstrators filling central squares, many carrying signs criticizing the new legislation.
Smaller rallies also took place in cities like Odesa, Lviv, Dnipro, and Sumy.
Many protesters, including young veterans, voiced fears that the reforms roll back progress made since the 2014 uprising that ousted pro-Russian leader Viktor Yanukovych.
They believe the law mirrors past eras of corruption and could damage Ukraine’s image as it seeks deeper ties with Europe.
Zelensky defended the move, saying the agencies had failed to act quickly on investigations and needed reform to remove foreign influence.
He later announced plans to draft a new bill to address public concerns but did not reveal any specifics.
Western allies responded with caution. A spokesperson for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU had requested explanations from Kyiv.
Officials stressed that a strong fight against corruption and respect for the rule of law are essential for Ukraine’s progress toward EU membership.
NABU and SAP were established over a decade ago as part of Ukraine’s reform commitments tied to EU visa agreements and IMF support.
With Ukraine granted EU candidate status in 2022, many citizens see the rollback as endangering the country’s hard-won progress in governance and integration.