Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky oversaw the departure of 15 officials this week as allegations of graft grew, threatening to sap momentum and support for Ukraine’s war with Russia. The public servants, who had been accused of various types of misappropriation, overpaying and self-dealing, include front-line governors, high level development and defense officials, and members of Zelensky’s own staff.
The president’s actions came as concerns over corruption have grown in Western capitals since the start of the conflict. Billions of dollars have entered the country, which was ranked 122 of 180 countries in 2021 by Transparency International.
From a Sunday speech following a report on military procurement abuses to the wave of departures during the week, Kyiv’s approach highlights how corruption could sap the country’s morale—and the support of key backers in the EU and beyond.
Dan Keeler is founder and editor-in-chief at Frontier Markets News and the founder and host of FMN’s podcast.
Prior to founding FMN, Dan was Editor, Frontier Markets at the Wall Street Journal.
