In a speech at the Atlantic Council think tank, Deputy Undersecretary for International Finance Brent Neiman stated that the budget assistance provided by the US and its allies to Ukraine is aimed at helping the country combat corruption and increase transparency as it seeks to become a NATO member. Despite the conflict, Ukraine’s economy has remained resilient, but Neiman emphasized the need for reforms to address issues of corruption and conflicts of interest.
Neiman outlined some of the anti-corruption measures that Ukraine has implemented, such as requiring public officials to disclose their assets, ensuring independence for the anti-corruption prosecutor’s office, and enhancing corporate governance in state-owned enterprises. The US has already provided approximately $175 billion in assistance to Ukraine, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. The European Union and NATO have made anti-corruption efforts a prerequisite for Ukraine’s potential membership in these organizations.
While acknowledging the importance of supporting Ukraine in defending itself against Russia’s aggression, Neiman emphasized the opportunity to assist Ukraine in making crucial reforms. He underscored that budget assistance from various sources is meant to help Ukraine prioritize and implement key reforms. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was elected on an anti-corruption platform in 2019, and his administration have taken steps to address corruption, including dismissing several high-ranking officials over the past two years.
Overall, the focus on fighting corruption and promoting transparency in Ukraine is critical for its future trajectory, both in terms of its security and its aspirations to join Western alliances. The continued support from the US, Europe, and international financial institutions is crucial for Ukraine to successfully navigate these challenges and advance its reform agenda.
