European Union officials cautioned Ukraine on Thursday that it must continue its efforts to combat corruption following a significant scandal that could impact the country’s ability to secure financial assistance. Despite this, they assured that aid will persist as Kyiv grapples with deterring Russia’s invasion.
During a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized European concerns regarding corruption, especially in light of the recent embezzlement and kickbacks scandal at the state-owned nuclear power company. This scandal, implicating a close associate of Zelenskyy, has evolved into one of the most serious government crises since Moscow’s invasion in February 2022.
Merz’s office stated that he highlighted the German government’s anticipation for Ukraine to vigorously pursue anti-corruption measures and additional reforms, particularly in the realm of the rule of law. In response, Zelenskyy vowed to uphold full transparency, provide long-term support to independent anti-corruption bodies, and swiftly implement further actions to regain the trust of the Ukrainian populace, European allies, and international donors.
Moreover, a spokesperson for the European Commission in Brussels noted that the uncovering of the alleged kickback scheme signifies Ukraine’s progress in combating corruption as it strives to meet the criteria for EU membership. Stressing the importance of fighting corruption, the spokesperson highlighted the necessity for sustained efforts to ensure the country’s ability to combat corruption effectively and uphold the rule of law.
As a part of the ongoing investigations into the energy sector corruption, several high-ranking officials have resigned or been dismissed, including the vice president of Energoatom, the state-owned nuclear power company at the center of the kickback scandal. The EU and other foreign partners have heavily invested in Ukraine’s energy sector, while Russia continues to target the power grid, necessitating frequent repairs.
In response to the corruption scandal, Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced the dismissal of key officials from Energoatom, emphasizing that corruption is intolerable, particularly during a time of war and energy infrastructure challenges. Tymur Mindich, suspected as the mastermind behind the conspiracy, remains at large, prompting inquiries into the awareness of senior officials regarding the scheme and recalling past attempts by Zelenskyy to limit anti-corruption watchdogs.
In a bid to support Ukraine, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen disclosed plans to disburse a $7 billion US loan to Ukraine, with assurances of additional financial assistance. She underscored the EU’s commitment to covering Ukraine’s financial requirements for the next two years and exploring avenues to secure further funding, potentially through seizing frozen Russian assets, capital market fundraising, or contributions from EU member states.
Addressing the ongoing conflict, von der Leyen criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attempts to prolong the crisis in Ukraine, urging a renewed effort to engage Putin in negotiations. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military commander, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, personally oversaw operations in Pokrovsk, emphasizing strategic goals to regain control over specific areas, safeguard logistical routes, and ensure troop supplies and medical evacuations.
Furthermore, Ukraine employed a new domestically developed cruise missile, the FP-5, along with other weapons, to target multiple sites in Russian-occupied territories and within Ukraine. The missile, known as the Flamingo missile due to a manufacturing error resulting in a pink hue, has a substantial payload and range, demonstrating Ukraine’s military capabilities in the ongoing conflict.
The developments underscore the multifaceted challenges facing Ukraine as it navigates internal corruption issues, external aggression, and military operations, while seeking continued support from international partners in its efforts to safeguard sovereignty and combat corruption.
