European Commission Expresses Deep Concern Over NAБУ and SAP Law: Kyiv Must Provide Explanations
The European Commission has expressed serious concern regarding recent legislative developments in Ukraine that significantly restrict the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NAБУ) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP).
The EU's highest authority has called on Kyiv to provide detailed explanations for this initiative, as it undermines fundamental principles of the rule of law in Ukraine.
According to European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Merise, Brussels is deeply worried that the new law effectively weakens these critical anti-corruption institutions, which are considered cornerstones of Ukraine’s reform agenda and are essential for ensuring transparency and fighting corruption at the national level.
Merise emphasized that both structures, NAБУ and SAP, are pillars of the rule of law, and their independence is crucial for the success of reforms and maintaining public trust.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has already contacted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, expressing her concern and urging Kyiv to clarify the situation.
She stressed that respect for the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts are core values of the EU, and any attempt to undermine them is unacceptable for a candidate country.
Leading up to the law’s adoption, EU officials had maintained a cautious stance, hoping for dialogue and compromise.
However, recent events have raised alarm among Brussels policymakers.
The European Commissioner for Enlargement, Martha Kos, harshly responded to the law’s passage, highlighting that the situation represents a serious crisis for Ukraine’s cooperation prospects with the EU.
Brussels warns that these changes could jeopardize future aid and Ukraine’s potential accession to the EU.
It is important to note that until these legislative moves, the EU’s response was relatively reserved, relying on dialogue and diplomatic engagement.
Currently, the focus is on not only internal Ukrainian politics but also the country’s broader strategic future within European integration processes.
Discussions in parliament and analytical centers emphasize the importance of Ukrainian authorities addressing these concerns promptly to preserve the EU's support and prevent further setbacks in Ukraine’s path to membership.