Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the arrest of several officials, including an MP, for their involvement in a large-scale bribery scheme related to the purchase of military drones and electronic warfare systems. The investigation found that state contracts were signed at prices inflated by up to 30%, according to a statement on X.
The probe is part of a broader effort to combat corruption in Ukraine, which has been a key requirement for the country’s bid to join the European Union. In 2022, Ukraine was granted EU candidate status, and the creation of independent anti-corruption agencies like the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (Sap) is a condition for membership.
The government faced widespread criticism after introducing a bill that would have stripped Nabu and Sap of their independence. However, Zelensky later submitted a new bill restoring the agencies’ autonomy, which was approved by parliament just nine days later. The move was praised by EU allies and the head of Ukraine’s Defence Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), Kyrylo Budanov.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gq3xwr357o