Ukraine finds itself at a crossroads, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reversing course on a contentious anti-corruption law that sparked outrage both domestically and internationally. The European Union (EU) is closely monitoring this dramatic shift, raising questions about Ukraine’s commitment to democratic governance and its path toward EU membership.
The Controversial Law That Shook Ukraine
On July 22, 2025, Ukraine’s parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, swiftly passed a law placing the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) under the direct oversight of the prosecutor general, a political appointee loyal to Zelenskyy. This move, which critics argue empowers the executive branch to manipulate high-profile investigations, clashed with the EU’s vision of independent anti-corruption agencies. The law’s rapid approval and Zelenskyy’s signature caught Brussels off guard, marking the first significant rebuke from the EU since Russia’s invasion began.
The EU, viewing NABU and SAPO as cornerstones of Ukraine’s fight against corruption, expressed alarm. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen personally contacted Zelenskyy, demanding explanations and emphasizing that “there cannot be a compromise” on the rule of law—a core EU principle Ukraine must uphold as a candidate country. This diplomatic pressure, coupled with widespread street protests, forced Zelenskyy to rethink his stance.
Zelenskyy’s Unexpected Reversal
Responding to the backlash, Zelenskyy submitted a new bill on July 24, 2025, promising “full-fledged guarantees of the independence” for NABU and SAPO. The proposal, set for consideration by the Verkhovna Rada on July 31, includes measures like regular polygraph tests for employees handling state secrets. Verkhovna Rada Chairperson Ruslan Stefanchuk has pledged to expedite its approval, signaling a potential resolution to the crisis.
NABU and SAPO have endorsed the draft, calling it a restoration of their “due process powers and guarantees of independence.” The EU has cautiously welcomed this U-turn, offering technical assistance to refine the legislation, though it awaits full mitigation of its concerns before full endorsement. This swift pivot highlights Zelenskyy’s responsiveness but also raises questions about the initial intent behind the original law.
The EU’s Watchful Eye and Diplomatic Tension
The EU’s scrutiny reflects its high stakes in Ukraine’s stability and reform process. With billions in aid and a €100 billion reconstruction fund on the line, Brussels cannot afford backsliding on corruption—a key condition for Ukraine’s EU accession. Von der Leyen’s intervention underscores this urgency, though Zelenskyy’s denial of their conversation—reported by Interfax—adds a layer of diplomatic intrigue. Whether this was a miscommunication or a strategic deflection remains unclear, but it has fueled speculation about internal tensions.
Brussels’ cautious optimism suggests a willingness to support Ukraine, provided the new law aligns with EU standards. This delicate balance could shape future EU-Ukraine relations, testing Kyiv’s ability to navigate international expectations amid wartime pressures.
Public Outrage Ignites Protests
The original law triggered Ukraine’s first major protests since the war’s onset, with thousands rallying in Kyiv, Lviv, and Dnipro. Chanting “Shame” and “Veto the law,” demonstrators—many war veterans and young activists—expressed fears of a return to authoritarianism. Critics argue the law shields Zelenskyy’s allies from scrutiny, a charge he countered by claiming it aimed to purge “Russian influence” from the agencies.
This public outcry, the largest since 2022, underscores corruption’s enduring sensitivity in Ukraine. With the nation’s survival tied to Western support, the protests signal a demand for transparency that could either bolster or undermine Zelenskyy’s leadership.
Motives and Implications
Zelenskyy’s initial move may have stemmed from political expediency—consolidating power during wartime—or a genuine belief that NABU and SAPO were compromised, as suggested by recent security service allegations of Russian links. However, the U-turn suggests external and domestic pressure outweighed these motives. If successful, the new bill could restore public trust and EU confidence, but failure to address root issues might deepen skepticism.
For Ukraine, this episode tests its democratic resilience. A robust anti-corruption framework could accelerate EU integration, while lingering doubts could delay it. The global community watches as Kyiv balances sovereignty with international accountability.
A Test of Ukraine’s Democratic Future
Zelenskyy’s U-turn on the anti-corruption law marks a pivotal moment for Ukraine, shaped by EU oversight and public resolve. As the Verkhovna Rada deliberates on July 31, the outcome will determine whether Ukraine strengthens its democratic institutions or risks further instability. With the EU’s support and the people’s voice at play, this saga could redefine Ukraine’s path forward in a war-torn landscape.
