The EU is sounding the alarm: what will happen to support for Ukraine after the adoption of a high-profile bill restricting the independence of the NABU and the SAPO
23 July 2025 18:45
ANALYSIS FROM 
The signing of draft law 12414 by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has provoked a strong reaction from the European Union. The European Commissioner for Enlargement, Martha Kos, said:
“Eliminating key safeguards that protect the independence of the NABU is a significant step backwards, while the independence of the NABU and the SAPO are important on Ukraine’s path to EU accession. The rule of law is at the center of the EU accession negotiations.
The high-profile decision of the Verkhovna Rada has already caused a wave of criticism from European institutions, as well as a number of Ukrainian human rights activists and experts. Doubts about the transparency and motivation of this decision are only growing.
“Night” adoption of the law: alarming signals
“The law was adopted at night… even the initiative was of a different plan – to support the military and their families,” said Mykola Malomuzh, General of the Ukrainian Army and former head of the Foreign Intelligence Service, in a commentary for "Komersant Ukrainian".
According to Malomuzh, it is the way the decision was made that is of most concern – it was made without a broad discussion, bypassing democratic procedures.
Democracy, values and the “new Maidan”
The general emphasizes: “Ukraine fought for values that are protected by institutions – especially those that oppose corruption and authoritarianism.
What were we fighting for? People on the Maidan and at the frontline died for these values,” says Malomuzh.
According to him, anti-corruption bodies are not just institutions, but a guarantee of a civilized system and movement towards the EU. The general notes that corruption schemes – especially in the defense sector – are not myths, but facts confirmed by audits:
“The high-profile cases of $1 billion and then $2 billion weapons deals have been established by the Accounting Chamber, controlling bodies, American financial institutions, and special services. Trying to buy even ammunition without kickbacks is almost impossible, even if it is a cheaper option,” he adds.
According to Malomuzh, the attack on anti-corruption bodies is a “big signal” to Europe and partners that something is wrong inside the state. He emphasizes that society requires unity in the fight against corruption and aggression, not division.
Dialogue instead of confrontation
Malomuzh suggests:
- Open a constructive dialog with civil society and European institutions;
- Involve experts in discussing changes;
- Not to adopt laws “secretly at night” but through broad consultations.
The general sees the solution in the creation of an anti-crisis government of war, formed of high-level professionals.
There must be a strong government of war, all united by a single idea to make the Ukrainian state strong and destroy corruption models.
He is convinced that such a team is able to restore trust with partners and ensure an effective response to challenges.
The gap between the government and society: is there a chance to bridge it?
The general admits that the time of Yanukovych has not yet come, but some trends are already alarming. At the same time, he sees an opportunity to improve the situation.
“No, it is not a complete autocracy yet, but we can hear the first steps in this direction,” Malomuzh warns.
According to the general, there are threats of secrecy and a return to the authoritarian model:
- Stopping or reducing international aid;
- Resistance of Western countries in partnership;
- Loss of sovereignty at a time when resources at the front are critically needed.
So far, they have declared their support, but if we go backwards, the policy may change,” says the general.
General Malomuzh calls for:
- Not to narrow the rights of anti-corruption bodies;
- Open a constructive dialog;
- Build a strong, professional leadership;
- Preserve Ukraine’s European course.
“This is not only a matter of reforms, but also of national survival,” the general concludes.
“This is a convincing appeal to the government, society and international partners to maintain the course towards European democracy without curtailing reforms in times of war and change.
Author – Daryna Glushchenko
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