Ukrainian officials arrested for corruption during drone purchase

A Ukrainian MP and other officials have been arrested after state anti-corruption agencies have discovered what they have called a widespread bribery scheme during the purchase of drones and other electronic war systems.

Ukrainian President Voldymyr Zelensky has said through a post on X that a Ukrainian MP, district heads and civil administrations and some members of the National Guard are involved in the case of state contracts with suppliers, allegedly signed at 30 per cent higher prices.

Zelensky has written that there will be “tolerance” for corruption in Ukraine, and that he has thanked agencies for their work.

The independence of Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies has returned Thursday, following nationwide protests.

Zelensky's government has faced sharp criticism following the presentation of a bill that would deprive the National Bureau of independence against corruption and the Prosecutor's Office on Anti-corruption Issues.

The president has said the agencies must first be cleared of Russian influence and have attempted to give authority to the attorney general to decide who should be tried in cases of corruption at high levels.

This step has been seen as turning back to fighting corruption in Ukraine, resulting in major anti-government protests since Russia launched the war in Ukraine in 2022.

Seeing the public's anger, Zelensky has proposed a new bill to restore the independence of these two troops, and he has since been voted in parliament.

Authorities have said later that Zelensky has heard “calling the public”.

This step has been welcomed by European allies, who have voiced concerns about the initial proposal. / REL/Periscopi/