Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pledged new legislation following protests and international criticism over a law placing Ukraine’s anti-corruption bodies under the control of the prosecutor general, a presidential appointee.

Critics warn the move threatens institutional independence and risks undermining Ukraine’s EU hopes. Zelensky defended the law as a response to alleged Russian influence but said a new bill would safeguard anti-corruption agencies’ autonomy and uphold the rule of law, according to Al Jazeera.

The pledge comes after rare public protests in Kyiv and other cities despite wartime restrictions.