A new law passed by the Ukrainian parliament, backed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyj, is raising concerns among Danish politicians regarding Denmark’s financial aid to Ukraine and the country’s commitment to fighting corruption. The law grants the Ukrainian public prosecutor’s office control over two anti-corruption units previously operating independently, a move criticized as a setback for democracy.

The legislation has triggered street demonstrations in Ukraine and sparked worry within Transparency International. The development poses a political dilemma for Denmark, which has provided substantial financial support to Ukraine since the beginning of the war in 2022, totaling approximately 74 billion kroner. This aid is contingent upon Ukraine’s commitment to independent anti-corruption institutions.

Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen stated that the government is closely monitoring the situation and emphasizes the importance of Ukraine adhering to reform efforts to combat corruption. However, reactions from other foreign affairs spokespersons at Christiansborg have been largely muted.

Charlotte Munch, the Denmark Democrats’ foreign affairs spokesperson, affirmed the party’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia. However, Munch also emphasized the necessity for Ukraine to address corruption to meet EU membership requirements, highlighting the importance of responsible use of Danish funds allocated for the war.

Sascha Faxe from The Alternative described the new law as “deeply problematic,” characterizing it as a setback for democracy. Faxe stated that the future of Danish donations and Ukraine’s EU prospects depend on Ukraine’s ability to rectify the situation democratically.

Henrik Frandsen, the Modernists’ foreign affairs spokesperson, emphasized the critical importance of Ukraine combating corruption but refrained from commenting on the specific case. Several other foreign affairs spokespersons, including Christian Friis Bach (Liberals), Helle Bonnesen (Conservatives), and Lars-Christian Brask (Liberal Alliance), declined to comment due to vacation. Morten Messerschmidt (DF), Martin Lidegaard (R), Flemming Møller Mortensen (S), Karsten Hønge (SF) and Trine Pertou Mach (EL) did not respond to inquiries.