Zelensky’s Reversal on Anti-Corruption Institutions Is the Right Step – But the Fight Isn’t Over

As Ukraine fights Russia on the battlefield, it must also defend democracy at home. Zelensky pledges to restore anti-corruption independence after public outcry and global pressure was the right move.

Photo by Sarah Slimp

As Ukraine defends itself against Russian aggression on the battlefield, it is also fighting to protect the very democratic values that distinguish it from its enemy.

In recent weeks, the government’s move to curtail the independence of key anti-corruption institutions – or even the perception of such intent – sparked alarm both at home and abroad.

Now, following strong pushback from Ukrainian civil society and urgent appeals from Western partners, President Volodymyr Zelensky has pledged to restore the independence of Ukraine’s anti-corruption architecture. It is the right decision – not just politically, but strategically.

But the episode is also a sobering reminder: even in wartime, Ukraine cannot afford to waver in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.

This was never just a bureaucratic reshuffle. It was a matter of national security.

Undermining institutions like NABU, SAPO, or the NACP doesn’t just weaken oversight – it risks diverting critical resources from the front. Wartime corruption is not theoretical: every misused hryvnia means one less drone, one less bulletproof vest, one more delay in rebuilding bombed-out homes and lives. Anti-corruption bodies are not luxuries in war. They are lifelines.

The international reaction made it clear: reform is not optional.

Ukraine’s allies in the EU, G7, and IMF have shown unprecedented generosity – but not blind loyalty. Their support has always been linked to democratic resilience and institutional progress. With a long war ahead, Kyiv cannot afford to jeopardize these lifelines. Delayed funding or derailed IMF agreements would cost Ukraine more than just money – they would cost trust.

Public reaction was swift – and justified.

Ukrainians have sacrificed too much to accept even the hint of returning to the past. The memory of the Maidan, the courage of whistleblowers, and the daily work of civic reformers are testaments to a public that demands accountability – even in war. The protests and petitions weren’t a distraction from the war effort – they were an essential part of it.

And as always, the only one cheering on institutional rollback was Vladimir Putin.

Any sign of democratic retreat in Kyiv is immediately weaponized by the Kremlin. It confirms Moscow’s propaganda that Ukraine is no different – that democracy is a mask. When Ukraine stumbles, it strengthens Putin’s resolve, not his willingness to negotiate.

President Zelensky now has a second chance – and he should seize it.

His decision to restore institutional independence is a victory for Ukraine’s democracy. But it must go further. If reforms are needed, let them be specific, transparent, and inclusive. The solution to a few weak spots in the system is not to dismantle the whole structure but to strengthen what works and fix what doesn’t.

This moment must be a turning point – not just a pause in retreat.

Ukraine cannot afford a return to performative reform or behind-the-scenes compromise. The anti-corruption fight is not just a checkbox for international aid – it’s a cornerstone of the country Ukraine is fighting to become.

This is not just about corruption. It is about dignity, credibility, and identity. It is about proving to soldiers on the front lines, citizens rebuilding their lives, and allies around the world that Ukraine is not only worth defending – but capable of becoming what it has always aspired to be: a free, fair, and democratic European state.

The war against Russia is a fight for sovereignty. The fight against corruption is a fight for dignity. Ukraine must win both.