Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s swift reversal of a controversial anti-corruption law has not restored public trust, which remains significantly weakened.
At a Glance
- Zelenskyy reversed a law that would have curtailed the independence of anti-corruption bodies amid large public protests
- Trust in the president has fallen sharply, with recent polls showing decline from prewar levels to roughly two-thirds approval in July 2025
- Critics say the decisive move betrayed previously high public confidence rooted in wartime leadership
- Parliament swiftly passed a bill to restore independence to anti-corruption agencies
- International allies, including leaders in the UK and Germany, expressed concern and welcomed the reversal as necessary for regaining trust
Public Reaction & Political Fallout
When Zelenskyy signed a law diminishing the powers of Ukraine’s National Anti‑Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Anti‑Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), it triggered widespread protests across Kyiv and other cities in July 2025. Thousands turned out, signaling that public tolerance for wartime powers has limits and that democratic checks remain critical.
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Despite the reversal, confidence in Zelenskyy’s judgment has been eroded. Polls conducted in July 2025 indicate that presidential approval has dropped to about two-thirds—down from much higher figures earlier in the conflict.
Institutional Checks Regained
Parliament reacted by swiftly approving legislation to reestablish the independence of NABU and SAPO. Lawmakers, who had previously voted in line with presidential endorsements without hesitation, now say they will scrutinize proposals more carefully, reflecting a shift from near-unquestioning support to a more cautious approach.
Zelenskyy acknowledged communication failures, admitting that better dialogue was needed during the process—an indication that governance style may need to evolve during wartime.
International Signals & Future Implications
The incident alarmed Ukraine’s Western partners. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul both voiced concerns over the anti-corruption law, stressing the importance of institutional independence. Zelenskyy’s decision to reverse the law was welcomed as a necessary step toward restoring trust domestically and internationally.
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