A new law in Ukraine has sparked controversy and protests by stripping procedural independence from anti-corruption agencies—namely NABU (National Anti-Corruption Bureau) and SAPO (Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office). Critics say this law gives the Prosecutor General sweeping control over corruption investigations, rendering key watchdog institutions effectively powerless and undermining Ukraine’s already fragile accountability framework.
Ukraine, already labeled the most corrupt country in Europe before the war, is now accused of dismantling what little anti-corruption oversight remained. A member of Zelensky’s own party publicly questioned whether Ukraine can still be called a democracy, given the clampdown on dissent, lack of independent media, and suppression of political opposition.
The deterioration in governance is also affecting Ukraine's EU membership ambitions. Hungary, for example, is staunchly opposed—both over corruption and alleged mistreatment of Hungarian minorities in Ukraine. Hungarian officials accuse Zelensky of targeting ethnic Hungarians and trying to use threats to silence criticism. Hungary’s Foreign Minister flatly rejected Ukraine’s EU bid, saying Zelensky treats Hungarians as enemies.
Beyond Hungary, broader EU skepticism is growing. Financial realities weigh heavily—Ukraine is far poorer than any current EU member, and admitting it would require massive subsidies, especially affecting countries like Poland and France, whose farmers would face direct economic losses. These countries may block Ukraine’s membership for financial reasons, even without invoking corruption or minority rights issues.
Furthermore, EU expansion requires unanimous approval at multiple stages, meaning any single country can stall the process for years. Critics argue the EU has drifted from its founding goals of mutual prosperity and peace, becoming overly politicized in its drive to confront Russia—a strategy now under strain due to the costs and consequences of war.
In sum, Ukraine’s authoritarian drift, corruption concerns, and economic burdens are creating serious internal dissent and weakening its standing with Western allies, potentially stalling both EU integration and continued financial/military support.
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