President of Ukraine Voldymyr Zelensky attends the parliament session in Kyiv, Ukraine, Tuesday, July 17, 2025.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has moved to calm public anger and international criticism by reversing a controversial law. On Thursday, he introduced a new bill designed to restore the full independence of Ukraine’s anti-graft agencies.
Earlier this week, Zelenskyy approved legislation that sparked intense backlash. It was widely seen as weakening Ukraine’s anti-corruption institutions — a key element in the country’s bid to join the European Union.
Public Outcry Forces a U-Turn
The controversial law triggered Ukraine’s first major protests since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Citizens took to the streets, voicing concerns that the government was rolling back reforms.
The European Union also criticized the move. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos described it as “a serious step back.”
The backlash was swift. Activists, civil society groups, and anti-corruption watchdogs condemned the legislation. Transparency International warned it could damage Ukraine’s credibility with Western allies.
New Bill Brings Anti-Graft Bodies Back on Track
In response, Zelenskyy submitted a new draft law to parliament that restores the powers of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO).
According to Zelenskyy, the bill ensures these agencies remain free from government control and political interference. It explicitly prevents the prosecutor general or their deputies from issuing commands to anti-graft bodies.
The law also introduces additional safeguards against Russian influence, including mandatory polygraph testing for law enforcement officers.
Agencies Back the Move
Both NABU and SAPO welcomed the bill and confirmed they were involved in drafting it. They said the proposal restores all procedural powers lost under the previous law and urged lawmakers to pass it quickly.
“The draft guarantees our independence and secures ongoing criminal investigations,” the agencies stated jointly.
Protests Persist, But Momentum Slows
Although the new proposal marks a significant shift, the protests have not yet fully subsided. Demonstrators continue to call for swift parliamentary approval.
Crowds were smaller on Thursday evening, but the mood remains cautious. Protesters say the damage from the earlier law must be fully undone before trust can be rebuilt.
Zelenskyy acknowledged the unrest. “Unity is crucial,” he posted on social media. “We must protect our legal system from Russian interference.”
Demonstrators protest against a new bill proposed by President Voldymyr Zelenskyy restoring the independence of the country’s anti-corruption agencies, in Kyiv, Ukraine, July 24, 2025.
War Adds Urgency to Anti-Corruption Efforts
The controversy comes at a critical time. Russia is intensifying its military assault, and Ukrainian cities face daily bombardment.
The country is also awaiting clarity on future U.S. military aid. European partners may have to fill the gap, making Western trust more important than ever.
Brussels has made it clear: Ukraine’s EU bid depends on credible reforms and effective anti-corruption efforts. Billions in financial support also hinge on those guarantees.
Deadly Strikes Continue Across Ukraine
While political tensions rise, the war continues to claim lives.
On Thursday, Russian bombs killed two women and injured 14 in the eastern city of Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Governor Vadym Filashkin reported.
In Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, two powerful glide bombs injured 42 people, including young children.
Missile and drone attacks overnight also hit Odesa and Cherkasy, injuring 11 people and damaging historic landmarks and homes.
Meanwhile, Ukraine launched long-range drone strikes deep into Russian territory. One attack hit Sochi, killing two women and injuring 11 others. An oil depot was also struck, Russian officials confirmed.
A Crucial Test for Zelenskyy’s Leadership
The reversal on anti-corruption reforms highlights a growing challenge for Zelenskyy.
As the war drags on, Ukrainians demand clean governance, strong institutions, and integrity in leadership. Any sign of backsliding could erode public confidence.
For now, the proposed bill offers a chance to restore trust — both at home and with international partners. But it must pass quickly to defuse the political fallout and maintain momentum toward EU membership.
