Ukrainian Anti-Corruption Crackdown Sparks Controversy
Ukrainian security services arrested officials from the anti-corruption agency NABU, accusing ties to Russia. The crackdown, including 70 searches, drew criticism from Transparency International, citing it as massive pressure on corruption fighters. Accusations of political motives arose, with calls for maintaining agency independence.
On Monday, Ukrainian security services arrested officials from the National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) amid allegations of Russian espionage and business ties. This large-scale operation included risk-related searches, effectively halting NABU's efforts, according to the agency's comments.
The SBU claimed to have identified multiple connections to Russia among NABU officials, triggering political controversy. Critics, including anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International, argue that the searches signify undue pressure, compromising the ability of Ukraine's corruption fighters to operate independently.
Activist Vitaliy Shabunin, facing separate charges, condemned the actions as politically motivated, while Zelenskiy's office refuted these claims. Calls continue for President Zelenskiy to ensure the autonomy of NABU and other anti-corruption bodies, emphasizing the importance of transparent legal proceedings.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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