Sat Dec 27 16:25:54 UTC 2025: Summary:
Ukraine’s anti-corruption agency, NABU, faced resistance from the State Security Department while attempting to raid Parliament offices amid a new graft probe implicating several MPs. The investigation involves allegations of bribery for votes. This scandal surfaced as President Zelenskyy left for the U.S. for peace talks and Russia launched a barrage of attacks on Kyiv. The timing is critical as Ukraine faces public anger over widespread corruption during the war, coupled with pressure from the U.S. to cede territory and hold elections. Zelenskyy’s past attempts to undermine the independence of anti-graft agencies have drawn criticism.
News Article:
Ukraine Anti-Corruption Raid on Parliament Met with Resistance
Kyiv, Ukraine – December 27, 2025 – Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) encountered resistance from the State Security Department during a raid on Parliament offices Saturday as part of a new corruption investigation. The probe reportedly implicates multiple members of parliament in a bribery scheme.
According to NABU, the investigation uncovered an organized criminal group including current MPs, who allegedly accepted bribes in exchange for votes. While details of the specific allegations remain undisclosed, the anti-corruption agency emphasized its commitment to pursuing justice despite the challenges.
The raid coincided with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s departure for negotiations in the U.S. concerning the ongoing conflict with Russia. The timing is especially sensitive as the country grapples with public discontent over rampant corruption amidst the war, coupled with recent heavy Russian missile and drone attacks that killed and wounded several citizens.
The scandal also follows previous controversial attempts by President Zelenskyy to limit the independence of NABU and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) that sparked protests and international criticism. Corruption remains a significant obstacle for Ukraine in its bid for EU membership, especially as the US is urging Zelenskyy to cede territory and hold elections.
First Piper 