Former Ukrainian minister calls for Zelensky to face questions on corruption

A former member of Ukraine’s cabinet, who was recently removed from his post, told the BBC that President Volodymyr Zelensky should be directly questioned about his awareness of corruption within the government. The minister, whose name was not disclosed in the interview, argued that transparency is essential for maintaining public trust as the country continues to fight Russia’s invasion.

He added that the current political climate makes it even more important for the president to address any allegations head‑on. "If there are claims of misuse of funds or abuse of power, the public deserves to know whether the president was informed," he said, emphasizing that accountability should not be suspended because of war.

In the same conversation, the former minister advocated for holding national elections despite the ongoing conflict. He contended that a wartime vote would reinforce democratic legitimacy and give Ukrainians a clear mandate to continue the fight. The call comes as Kyiv has repeatedly postponed elections, citing security concerns and the logistical challenges of voting in occupied territories.

Ukraine’s anti‑corruption watchdog, the National Anti‑Corruption Bureau (NABU), has recently launched several high‑profile investigations into officials accused of embezzlement and nepotism. While no direct link to Zelensky has been publicly established, the minister’s remarks reflect growing pressure from opposition parties and civil‑society groups demanding greater scrutiny of the president’s role.

Analysts note that the demand for wartime elections could reshape the political landscape, potentially influencing both domestic reforms and international support. As the war drags on, Ukraine faces the dual task of defending its sovereignty while ensuring that democratic standards are upheld.