Finland's Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen (NCP) has said it is "crystal clear" that Ukraine's EU membership hinges on continued efforts to fight corruption.
Speaking to Yle while on an official visit to France, Valtonen stressed that Ukraine's recent legislative moves have raised serious concerns.
On Tuesday, the Ukrainian Parliament passed a controversial bill that would weaken the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). The EU has requested clarification on the law and its implications.
Valtonen said she contacted Ukrainian officials immediately after learning about the bill, which was widely criticised and passed at speed.
"This isn't just about EU membership, it's about the future Ukrainians have worked, dreamed, and now are tragically forced to fight for," she said.
"Anti-corruption efforts must continue, and we will give our full support."
Valtonen described EU membership as merely "the cherry on top" of the broader reforms needed.
"A strong market economy that doesn't discriminate, a functioning rule of law, and a vibrant democracy where every vote counts — that's what really matters," she said.
The legislation sparked protests and backlash in Ukraine, including criticism of President Volodymyr Zelensky for approving the bill. In response to mounting pressure, Zelensky announced Thursday that the concerns would be addressed. He posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he had approved a revised version of the bill for parliament to consider.
The content of the new draft has not yet been made public, but Zelensky has made assurances that it will preserve the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions.
"We'll assess the proposal together with the Ukrainians once it's available," Valtonen said.
Little progress in Ukraine-Russia talks
Valtonen also commented on recent peace talks between Ukrainian and Russian representatives in Turkey. She described the outcome as predictably limited and stressed the importance of continued pressure on Russia to agree to a full ceasefire.
She welcomed the EU's latest sanctions package approved last week and said the planned aid package from the United States remains essential — though discussions in Washington appear to be on hold.
Following the short, under-one-hour meeting between the delegations, Ukraine proposed a summit at the head-of-state level before the end of August. The Russian delegation responded that such a meeting should only take place for the signing of documents — not further negotiations.
"If such a summit were to be organised in late August, Finland would of course support it," Valtonen said.
