NABU Chief Semen Kryvonos Ready to Face Charges if Evidence is Found

Statement from Semen Kryvonos

According to Главком: During a press conference on February 10, Semen Kryvonos, the Director of Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU), stated his readiness to accept a formal suspicion of wrongdoing if evidence of a crime is presented. He firmly denied that any political agreements could influence his work. This statement comes amid a period of intense pressure on Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions, which are seen as crucial for the country's democratic development and international support.

It is worth noting that Kryvonos, alongside the head of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), Oleksandr Klymenko, had previously indicated on July 22, 2025, that they might be formally notified of suspicion. That same day, Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, voted on a draft law proposing to strip anti-corruption bodies of their independence.

Searches and Their Consequences

On July 21, 2025, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Office of the Prosecutor General conducted simultaneous searches at NABU and SAPO offices across multiple regions. Officials justified the raids as an effort to counter alleged Russian influence within NABU, a claim that sparked significant public controversy and concern.

In a related development, NABU is preparing an extradition request to Israel concerning suspects in the 'Midas' case, where substantial sums of money posted as bail for one suspect were frozen.

'If there is evidence of a crime, I am prepared for any procedural decisions, both concerning myself and the head of SAPO.' Semen Kryvonos

These declarations against the backdrop of recent events highlight the highly charged atmosphere surrounding Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies.

The situation remains tense, particularly following the searches and legislative moves that threaten institutional independence. Kryvonos's statement of willingness to face suspicion may signal a commitment to transparency, but it also underscores the severe challenges these bodies confront in their fight against corruption. As domestic investigations and international legal requests proceed, the actions of Ukraine's anti-corruption watchdogs will be closely watched for their impact on the country's governance.