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The attempts to abolish the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) have sparked intense debate and concern. Media campaigns by major Telegram channels have spread negative narratives, while the European Commission and various EU ambassadors warn that Ukraine's path to EU membership could be jeopardized. Mass protests erupted across Ukrainian cities, illustrating public dissent. President Zelenskyy’s administration is accused of undermining these anti-corruption bodies. The controversy over NABU and SAPO highlights the crucial role of anti-corruption efforts in Ukraine's political landscape.
What is the significance of NABU and SAPO in Ukraine?
NABU (National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine) and SAPO (Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office) are essential in investigating and prosecuting high-level corruption cases in Ukraine. Their independence is crucial for maintaining an impartial judicial process and ensuring that corruption is adequately addressed. They are also key to Ukraine's international obligations, particularly in relations with the European Union and international donors from whom Ukraine receives substantial financial aid.
How did the Ukrainian government attempt to undermine NABU and SAPO?
The Ukrainian government, led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and facilitated by parliament members, attempted to undermine NABU and SAPO by passing legislation that curtailed their independence. This included conducting searches and discrediting these institutions through media campaigns, claiming connections with the Russian Federation. Moreover, a draft law affecting their procedural independence was signed, raising alarms among international observers.
What has been the international response to the situation with NABU and SAPO?
International response, particularly from the European Union, has been one of concern. EU ambassadors and commissioners have emphasized the importance of maintaining independent anti-corruption institutions for Ukraine's accession prospects to the EU. The European Commission has warned Ukraine of potential aid reductions and stressed that the continuation of anti-corruption reforms is critical. High-profile figures, including Ursula von der Leyen, have reinforced this stance.
Why are protests occurring in Ukraine related to NABU and SAPO?
The protests in Ukraine are a public reaction against legislative actions perceived to threaten the independence of NABU and SAPO. Many Ukrainians view these anti-corruption bodies as crucial to holding government officials accountable and ensuring transparency in governance. Demonstrators are demanding the reinstatement of full independence and operational capabilities for these institutions, underlining widespread public support for anti-corruption efforts.
What are the potential consequences of limiting NABU and SAPO's independence?
Limiting the independence of NABU and SAPO could significantly impact Ukraine's efforts to combat corruption effectively. Such actions may erode public trust in government institutions, weaken rule of law, and affect Ukraine's international relations and financial aid, particularly from the EU. It can slow down Ukraine's progress towards EU membership, as high-level anti-corruption measures are a prerequisite for integration into European structures.
How do NABU and SAPO contribute to Ukraine's European Union integration efforts?
NABU and SAPO play significant roles in Ukraine's European Union (EU) integration efforts by upholding the rule of law, transparency, and accountability, which are core values required for EU membership. The EU has made it clear that independent and effective anti-corruption agencies are essential for Ukraine's accession process. Successful anti-corruption reforms facilitated by NABU and SAPO demonstrate Ukraine's commitment to meeting EU standards and fulfilling its obligations as part of its Association Agreement with the EU.
w117_header_alt Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Authorities have constant desire to interfere in work of SAPO - Klymenko The authorities have a constant desire to interfere in the work of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office. 1 219 5 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Results of NABU and SAPO operations
Ukraine has still not restored EU trust after attack on NABU and SAPO independence, European Commissioner Kos says European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos has said that trust-related problems on the part of the European Union toward Ukraine over the attack on NABU and SAPO in the summer of 2025 still persist. 3 351 47 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
We have corrected July mistake with NABU, so position on Taurus or Tomahawk should be reviewed, - Kachka Ukraine has corrected its mistake in restricting the independence of anti-corruption bodies, so partners should also correct their mistake in delaying the delivery of military aid, in particular Taurus and Tomahawk missiles. 8 454 61 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Tomahawk missiles for Ukraine
Who tried to destroy NABU and SAPO: AntAC published list of prosecutors, judges and law enforcement officers. LIST On 22 July 2025, the Office of the President, with the help of members of parliament, attempted to destroy the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). In particular, law enforcement officers, acting on... 14 307 77 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Media war against NABU: top Telegram channels simultaneously attack anti-corruption activists At least eight leading Ukrainian Telegram channels (from the top ten in the Telemetrio service ranking) are conducting a coordinated media campaign to discredit the NABU and SAPO. Over the past nine months, they have published nearly 900 negative posts, which have garnered a total of over 250... 12 435 82 Previously in trend: Pressure on NABU Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
FBI takes interest in Mindich: Why did Ze-Bankova actually take sledgehammer to NABU and SAPO? || UNCENSORED. VIDEO The FBI has reportedly opened an investigation into possible money laundering linked to the Odesa Port Plant (OPP). The name of Tymur Mindich (co-owner of 95 Kvartal) appears in investigators’ inquiries. Journalist Maryna Danyliuk-Yarmolaieva explains in Uncensored how this may be connected to... 5 599 28 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Uncensored
Pressure on anti-corruption institutions in Ukraine is cause for concern, - European Commissioner Kos Political and legislative pressure on anti-corruption institutions and civil society in Ukraine is causing concern in the European Commission. This could slow down the process of accession to the EU. 2 891 37 Previously in trend: Pressure on NABU Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Ukraine’s progress in EU depends on preserving independence of NABU and SAPO, - Ambassador Maternova The European Union Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Maternova, emphasized that anti-corruption reforms are critically important for Ukraine's further progress towards EU membership. 986 12 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Damage from "July amendments" to NABU and SAPO not yet fully remedied – EU Commissioner Kos EU Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighborhood Policy Marta Kos said that the damage caused to Ukraine’s anti-corruption reforms by the July legislative changes concerning NABU and SAPO has been almost remedied. 2 642 9 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
We will be closely monitoring situation to ensure that NABU and SAPO remain independent, - European Commissioner Kos The European Commission plans to closely monitor that the NABU and SAPO can operate independently. 896 9 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
After conducting 49 searches at NABU, Zelenskyy’s oprichniki managed only to come up with fictional story about Dagestan, even though it was actually about Uzbekistan, - Shabunin. AUDIO The SSU distributed a transcript of an audio recording of a NABU detective accusing his father of selling cannabis to Dagestan. However, the file clearly shows that it is about Uzbekistan. 80 912 36 Previously in trend: Pressure on NABU Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Zelenskyy’s goals remain unchanged, he will continue offensive against NABU and SAPO – Shabunin President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s goals regarding the crackdown on anti-corruption agencies remain unchanged. He will continue the offensive against NABU and SAPO. 9 733 49 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Kryvonos and Klymenko urged Zelenskyy to veto controversial bill No. 12414, but he signed it anyway NABU Director Semen Kryvonos and Head of the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office Oleksandr Klymenko met with President Zelenskyy and urged him not to sign the scandalous draft law No. 12414 on the elimination of the independence of the NABU and the SAPO. 17 486 42 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Ukraine will receive smaller amount from EU due to failure to meet three indicators - Head of Department of EU Delegation to Ukraine Huitfeldt The European Union is currently monitoring Ukraine's progress under the Ukraine Facility plan, but reform of anti-corruption bodies must remain a priority. 26 819 51 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Protests in Kyiv enter ninth day over bill curbing NABU and SAPO powers. VIDEO&PHOTOS. VIDEO&PHOTOS Ahead of the vote on the bill to restore NABU and SAPO powers, people in Kyiv staged a protest. 2 491 29 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Germany expects Verkhovna Rada to swiftly pass bill restoring NABU and SAPO powers - Foreign Ministry Germany hopes Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada will support the bill restoring independence of anti-corruption bodies. 856 5 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
MPs seek guarantees that NABU, SAPO will not prosecute those who voted for Law No. 12414 – media On the eve of the vote to restore the independence of NABU and SAPO, some lawmakers are seeking assurances from the authorities that, afterward, the anti‑corruption bodies will not pursue those who supported Law No. 12414. 4 674 78 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Pool of anonymous Telegram channels backed in unison president’s initiative to abolish NABU and SAPO independence – TEXTY.ORG For about a month, popular Telegram channels have been preparing public opinion for the adoption and signing of draft law No. 12414, which effectively abolished the independence of NABU and SAPO. 11 492 58 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
AntAC calls on Ukrainians to peaceful protest: Only together can we stop dismantling of anti-corruption infrastructure On the evening of July 30, peaceful protests will take place in the main squares of cities across Ukraine against draft law No. 12414. 5 095 66 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
European Commission: Restoration of NABU and SAPO powers is key for Ukraine’s anti-corruption architecture In a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on July 28, European Commission President von der Leyen emphasized: Ukraine must preserve independent anti-corruption bodies, which are the cornerstones of the rule of law. 901 13 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence New law regarding NABU and SAPO
Tomorrow, VR Committee will consider presidential and alternative draft laws on powers of NABU and SAPO. We are talking about first reading, - Yurchyshyn On Wednesday, July 30, 2025, the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Law Enforcement should reconsider the decision on the dependence of the NABU and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office. 1 847 21 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Ten most high-profile anti-corruption cases of NABU and SAPO: Among defendants - Chernyshov, Kyrylenko and Smyrnov The NABU and the SAPO have identified the top ten of their most high-profile anti-corruption cases. Among the defendants are Oleksii Chernyshov, Pavlo Kyrylenko and Andrii Smyrnov. 7 870 35 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
It is important for Ukraine to continue reforms and fight against corruption - Lipavsky Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky had a telephone conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha. 724 11 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
European Commission has warned Ukraine that it may suspend all financial assistance to country if Kyiv puts pressure on anti-corruption bodies, - media The European Commission has threatened Ukraine with a complete suspension of financial assistance due to the law limiting the powers of the NABU and the SAPO and subordinating their activities to the Prosecutor General. 16 697 136 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence New law regarding NABU and SAPO
Day seven: protests continue in Kyiv against law restricting NABU and SAPO powers. PHOTOS On Monday, July 28, protesters gathered for the seventh consecutive day in Kyiv at the square near the Ivan Franko Theater, opposing a law that effectively eliminates the independence of the anti-corruption agencies, NABU and SAPO 5 610 59 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Protests against the NABU and SAPO law
Ambassador Makeiev on NABU and SAPO: Germany will not ignore anti-corruption risks on Ukraine’s path to EU Ukraine's Ambassador to Germany Oleksii Makeiev said that Berlin will not turn a blind eye to the problems with anti-corruption and the rule of law in Ukraine, as these are the basic principles of the European Union. 1 791 22 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Ukraine must preserve independent anti-corruption bodies, - von der Leyen after talks with Zelenskyy European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that Ukraine must maintain the independence of anti-corruption bodies. 3 189 20 Previously in trend: Zelenskyy’s conversation with von der Leyen Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Protests against law on NABU and SAPO continue in Kyiv for sixth day in row. PHOTO On the evening of Sunday, 27 July, protesters gathered for the sixth day in a row in Kyiv on the square near the Franko Theatre, opposing the law passed by the parliament and signed by the president that restricts the powers of the NABU and the SAPO. 8 725 89 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Protests against the NABU and SAPO law
Zelenskyy discussed new law on NABU and SAPO with von der Leyen: It is important to adopt it next week President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a conversation with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. They discussed Ukraine's European integration, further strengthening of sanctions against Russia and the work of our anti-corruption infrastructure. 2 906 55 Previously in trend: Ukraine’s Membership in the EU Zelenskyy’s conversation with von der Leyen Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
EU cuts aid to Ukraine due to corruption problems - NYT The attack on anti-corruption bodies may cost Ukraine part of its aid from the European Union. 19 482 181 Previously in trend: Aid to Ukraine from Europe Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Fourth day of protests against law on NABU and SAPO: Ukrainians take to streets in Kyiv and other cities. PHOTOS People in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities stage fourth protest since 22 July against Law No. 12414, which curbs NABU and SAPO independence. 4 684 32 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Protests against the NABU and SAPO law
Progress of candidate countries in fight against corruption determines pace of EU accession negotiations - Austrian Foreign Ministry Austria is concerned about the adoption of a law in Ukraine restricting the powers of the NABU and the SAPO and emphasizes the importance of the independence of anti-corruption bodies. 714 7 Previously in trend: Ukraine’s Membership in the EU Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Only honest admission of mistake is to resign, - servicewoman Mykhailova addressed deputies who voted for attack on NABU By voting for the draft law restricting the independence of the NABU and the SAPO, MPs created a crisis. It was not a mistake, but a slap in the face to society. 8 514 102 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Protests against the NABU and SAPO law
Rada to consider Zelenskyy’s bill on NABU and SAPO on 31 July, - Stefanchuk The Verkhovna Rada will convene on 31 July 2025 to consider, among other things, the presidential bill on strengthening the powers of the anti-corruption bodies NABU and SAPO. 2 807 41 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Sikorski: We told Zelenskyy that worst thing now is to give up fight against corruption Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had been warned against stopping the fight against corruption. 2 079 36 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
NABU is being destroyed due to suspicions against Mindich, owner of "95 Kvartal," - media A number of media outlets mention the president's friend Tymur Mindich in the context of the energy sector of public administration and even the production of drones. 13 051 66 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Zelenskyy on protests against restrictions on NABU and SAPO: I respect opinion of society, we have responded President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the new draft law on the NABU and the SAPO was a reaction to public protests. 5 563 82 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Protests against the NABU and SAPO law
Pensioner with poster reading "Paid student" at protest against Law No. 12414 in Ternopil. PHOTO In Ternopil, a woman came out to protest against Law 12414 on the elimination of the independence of the NABU and the SAPO with a poster "Paid Student". 10 220 62 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Protests against the NABU and SAPO law
Number of MPs say they made mistake by voting for law on NABU and SAPO A number of MPs said that their decision to vote for Bill 12414, which effectively eliminated the independence of the NABU and the SAPO, was a mistake. 15 131 117 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Protesters greet Servant of People MP Mariana Bezuhla with chants of "Bezuhla, get out!" at rally supporting NABU and SAPO. VIDEO Mariana Bezuhla, a Servant of the People MP who voted for Law No. 12414, came to a protest demanding its cancellation. Protesters shouted at her: "Bezuhla, get out." 15 011 72 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
My bill on guarantees of anti-corruption agencies’ independence is already in Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada – Zelenskyy. VIDEO In a video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about the draft law that provides full guarantees for the independence of anti-corruption agencies. 4 615 82 Previously in trend: Zelenskyy’s address Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
NABU clarifies who will conduct polygraph tests for Bureau detectives under Zelenskyy’s new draft law The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) clarified that, according to the provisions of President Zelenskyy’s draft law No. 13533, polygraph tests will be conducted by NABU’s Internal Control Department, not by the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU). 4 906 42 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence New law regarding NABU and SAPO
Finnish Foreign Minister Valtonen: Without overcoming corruption, Ukraine’s path to EU will be closed Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen considers it obvious that if Ukraine does not continue its fight against corruption, EU membership will be impossible. 2 345 55 Previously in trend: Ukraine’s Membership in the EU Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
NABU and SAPO back Zelenskyy’s submitted draft law restoring their independence Draft law No. 13533, submitted by the President of Ukraine as an urgent measure, restores all procedural powers and guarantees the independence of NABU and SAPO. 4 599 57 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
"Servant of lawlessness," "Russkies kill - government goes in for kill: What placards Ukrainians carried in cities when they took to streets against NABU and SAPO law. PHOTOS On July 22 and 23, a series of protests took place across Ukrainian cities against the signed Law No. 12414, which eliminates the independence of anti-corruption agencies NABU and SAPO. Ukrainians took to the streets carrying various placards expressing their positions on the leadership’s decision. 7 786 43 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Protests against the NABU and SAPO law
Kachka holds talks with European Commissioner Kos: Ukraine will ensure independence of NABU and SAPO Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka assured European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos of the guaranteed independence of Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies during their conversation. 1 734 39 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Zelenskyy submits draft law on independence of NABU and SAPO to Verkhovna Rada. DOCUMENT A draft law by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy to strengthen the powers of the anti-corruption bodies NABU and SAPO has been registered on the website of the Verkhovna Rada. 12 376 140 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence
Zelenskyy informs Merz about draft law guaranteeing independence of anti-corruption agencies President Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz that he has approved the draft law guaranteeing the independence and effectiveness of Ukraine’s anti-corruption institutions. 1 582 15 Previously in trend: Abolition of NABU and SAPO independence Conversation between Zelenskyy and Merz
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