On Nov. 13, Poland’s foreign minister Radosław Sikorski met Ukraine’s vice‑premier Taras Kaczy and warned that tolerating corruption could keep Kyiv from EU membership.
Meeting between Poland and Ukraine officials
On Thursday, 13 November, Poland’s foreign minister Radosław Sikorski met Ukraine’s vice‑premier Taras Kaczy. According to Polsat News, Sikorski told the Ukrainian official that “the simplest way to lose Western support is to tolerate corruption in Ukraine.”
Polish warning on corruption and EU accession
Sikorski added that if Ukraine tolerates corruption, it will not join the European Union. He said the EU demands honesty and procedural compliance.
Ukraine’s counter‑actions announced
The foreign minister highlighted that Ukraine has taken steps following the corruption investigation and arrests, demonstrating the “proper response of state authorities.” He noted prior attempts to undermine the anti‑corruption service’s effectiveness and said the Ukrainian authorities’ reaction will be key.
Details of the corruption probe
The National Anti‑Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti‑Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) uncovered a criminal organization in the energy sector. Current and former energy officials, a well‑known businessman and others were alleged to have systematically siphoned illegal profits of 10–15 % of contract values from contractors of Energoatom. The scheme is estimated to have defrauded 100 million dollars. Seven individuals faced charges.
Potential EU consequences
The scandal has prompted discussion of drastic measures within Ukrainian authorities, as the integrity of their institutions becomes pivotal for future EU integration.
