Raids on NABU and SAP: EU Ambassadors Urge Ukraine to Protect Reforms Amid Challenges
In Kyiv, ongoing developments highlight the tense situation surrounding anti-corruption efforts and alleged interference in Ukraine's independent institutions. On July 21, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), the Office of the General Prosecutor (OGP), and the State Bureau of Investigation (DBR) conducted multiple searches targeting employees of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) across various regions. These operations were followed by suspicion announcements against two NABU officials for treason, sparking concerns among domestic reform advocates and international observers. The searches reportedly bypassed judicial approval, raising questions about legality, and the names of the suspects were publicly disclosed prior to conclusion of official investigations. The European Union Ambassador to Ukraine, Kataryna Maternova, responded to these events with a call for Ukrainian authorities to safeguard the gains achieved through reforms, especially in the context of ongoing conflict and military challenges. Writing on social media platform X, she emphasized: "Now, more than ever, it is crucial to preserve the reform achievements that have helped Ukraine move forward even during the toughest times. Maintaining these reforms is essential to secure international support necessary for Ukraine’s victory over aggression." Earlier, the G7 diplomat representatives expressed serious concern over the recent developments and announced plans to discuss the situation with Ukrainian government officials. They stressed the importance of transparency, independent institutions, and rule of law. It is also reported that on July 21, law enforcement officials carried out extensive searches involving the SBU and the OGP across multiple regions, often without proper judicial authorization. The suspects’ names were prematurely published, which risks influencing the impartiality of investigations. According to official statements, the SBU initiated unscheduled audits of NABU and SAP, gaining access to their confidential investigative activities. Critics warn that such measures threaten to derail numerous ongoing criminal investigations and could destabilize Ukraine’s anti-corruption system.