Zelensky Faces Nationwide Protests After Signing Controversial Anti-Corruption Bill

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is facing widespread protests after signing a law that critics say undermines the independence of Ukraine’s top anti-corruption bodies.

The legislation places the Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) under the authority of the Prosecutor General—prompting backlash from activists, EU officials, and opposition leaders. Demonstrators defied curfews in cities across Ukraine, projecting slogans like “Veto the law” on government buildings.

The law’s passage came after raids on NABU staff and inspections at SAPO. Zelensky defended the move as necessary to root out alleged Russian infiltration, saying, “Only without Russian influences — everything needs to be cleansed of this.”

EU officials and watchdogs like Transparency International warned the law jeopardizes Ukraine’s EU aspirations and democratic credibility. Critics also say it enables political interference, with activists and Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko accusing the government of dragging Ukraine toward authoritarianism under the cover of war.

Despite internal dissent and European pressure, Zelenskyy has stood by the bill. “The anti-corruption infrastructure will work,” he said, “but without Russian influence.”

The president promised further discussions with legal institutions in the coming weeks to address public concern.