The fight against corruption and the principles of the rule of law are very important. They are the foundation of a democratic state. They are also crucial in the process of joining the European Union.
The Ukrainian parliament approved a law on July 22nd. This law limits the independence of anti-corruption institutions. These institutions are called NABU and SAPO. NABU is the National Anti-Corruption Bureau. SAPO is the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said that such steps weaken trust. People no longer trust reforms and the development of the rule of law. He also discussed this with his Ukrainian counterpart. He will continue to communicate with his Ukrainian counterpart, including during the negotiations taking place in Istanbul.
Estonia supports Ukraine in its war against Russia. Estonia shares its experiences on reforms and joining the European Union. We hope that Ukraine will use these experiences and quickly join the European Union.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the law. This law removes the autonomy of two anti-corruption institutions. Many international supporters are concerned about this decision.
The Ukrainian parliament voted in favor of the law. 263 lawmakers voted in favor and 13 against. Most of the votes in favor came from Zelensky's party. Critics say this law gives Zelensky more power. The government can interfere in corruption cases.
The European Union says this is a serious step backward. Street protests began in Ukraine. Under the new law, NABU and SAP are directly subordinate to the Prosecutor General appointed by the President.
NABU investigates corruption cases in government institutions. SAP handles other corruption cases.