Ukrainian lawmakers vote to scuttle independence of anti-corruption companies – POLITICO

“Anti-corruption infrastructure was simply destroyed by our personal lawmakers,” said NABU Director Semen Kryvonos. “In actual fact, this isn’t solely a battle of curiosity but in addition a risk to Ukraine’s EU integration.”

Ukraine’s SBU state safety service launched a collection of raids on NABU on Monday as a part of a probe into suspected collusion with Russian spies, proper earlier than the invoice was handed.

The EU, which has staunchly supported Ukraine in its resistance towards Russia’s full-scale invasion, stated Tuesday afternoon that it was “involved” in regards to the vote in Kyiv.

“These establishments are essential to Ukraine’s reform agenda and should function in an unbiased strategy to combat corruption and keep public belief,” stated European Fee spokesperson Guillaume Mercier when requested in regards to the regulation.

“The EU offers important monetary help to Ukraine, conditional on progress in transparency, judicial reform, and democratic governance. Ukraine’s accession would require a robust capability to fight corruption and to make sure institutional resilience,” Mercier added.

EU enlargement chief Marta Kos additionally reiterated that the independence of anti-corruption companies is essential for Ukraine’s EU bid, calling Tuesday’s modifications “a severe step again.”