“Destroy Russians And Corruption, Not Democracy” – Ukrainian Protesters To Zelenskyy

 

Thousands of Ukrainians took to the streets in major cities, including Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa, to protest a new law signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that curbs the independence of the country’s top anti-corruption agencies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO).

The law grants sweeping powers to the prosecutor general, allowing greater government control over corruption investigations.

Demonstrators expressed fears that the legislation signals an authoritarian shift and a betrayal of the values that fueled the Maidan revolution. Signs and chants ranged from “We chose Europe, not autocracy” to “Destroy Russians, not democracy” and “Shame!” and “Veto the law!”

“I am coming out to give them a signal that we are here,” said Natalia, a 48-year-old therapist, “so that we are not stolen and betrayed.” Many protesters see the demonstrations as a way to support the army on the front lines.

The European Union has expressed serious concerns about the law, with Marta Kos, the EU’s commissioner for enlargement, calling it a “serious step back.” Western supporters, including European officials, have voiced alarm, warning that the law could hurt Ukraine’s path to joining the European Union.

“We all share a common enemy: the Russian occupiers,” Zelenskyy said in response to criticism. “And defending the Ukrainian state requires a strong enough law enforcement and anti-corruption system — one that ensures a real sense of justice.”

In a surprising move, Zelenskyy announced that he is submitting a new bill that would commit the government to retaining the independence of the anti-corruption agencies. “All standards for the independence of anti-corruption institutions will be in place,” he said during his evening address ⁴.

The controversy comes as Ukraine faces ongoing conflict with Russia, with many analysts believing that Russia’s military gains will soon begin to slow due to its heavy losses. However, morale is frayed for many Ukrainians, with some expressing exhaustion and frustration.

“They won’t stop until we surrender,” said Agneshka Shyba, 23, who works in social media. “Frankly speaking, I am exhausted.”

The path ahead for Ukraine remains uncertain, with the country’s democratic integrity and anti-corruption efforts under scrutiny. As Oleh Symoroz, a veteran, aptly put it, “Those who swore to protect the laws and the Constitution have instead chosen to shield their inner circle, even at the expense of Ukrainian democracy”