Zelensky: Anti-corruption bodies have no questions for me
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said heads of anti-corruption agencies have no questions about him personally in connection with corruption cases involving former Presidential Office staff. He also commented on the dismissal of former deputy office head Iryna Mudra.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking with journalists, said that heads of anti-corruption agencies have no questions directed at him personally and, in his words, understand that he is not involved in corrupt practices. Outlet Ukrainska Pravda was not invited to the briefing; the remarks were cited by public broadcaster Suspilne.
Zelensky was commenting on corruption cases involving former representatives of the Presidential Office, including former deputy head Iryna Mudra. He said he has no additional information about these cases beyond what is already public.
According to Zelensky, the details that emerged about certain officials — regarding real or potential wrongdoing — were sufficient grounds to dismiss Mudra and another department employee. He said it would be inappropriate to discuss the matter further at this stage, but that authorities would respond if additional information comes to light.
Response to investigations
The president noted that anti-corruption bodies continue to operate independently, while the authorities respond to their findings. If there are grounds to dismiss a minister or other official, that will be done; in unclear cases, further details and a court verdict must be awaited.
Asked about possible personnel changes within the Presidential Office, Zelensky said rotations should not be an end in themselves and that suitable replacements are not always available. He also stressed that heads of anti-corruption bodies have no personal questions for him and that they clearly understand he is not engaged in such activities.
Background: On the morning of August 19, sources told Ukrainska Pravda that the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP) carried out searches as part of a special operation at the home of lawmaker Vadym Stoliar and at the residence of Iryna Mudra, deputy head of the Presidential Office. Stoliar later confirmed investigative actions were taking place at his home and said he was cooperating with NABU.
