Ukraine's chief prosecutor resigns over call centre corruption scandal

Ukraine's chief prosecutor, Ruslan Kravchenko, has resigned amid allegations of corruption involving illegal call centres and money laundering. Ukrainian anti-corruption investigators discovered a money-laundering scheme linked to an official in Kravchenko's office. Kravchenko claimed in his resignation letter that he did not want his position to be used for political confrontation and dismissed the allegations as unsubstantiated.

Corruption has been a persistent issue in Ukraine throughout the war against Russia, targeting several members of President Volodymyr Zelensky's inner circle. The Ukrainian National Anti-Corruption Bureau and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office allege the call centre network received funds to protect fraudulent operations, which were then used to purchase property and valuables.

Kravchenko resigned a day after submitting his letter of resignation, thanking Zelensky and the Ukrainian parliament for their trust. Despite the formation of two anti-corruption bodies, corruption remains a significant problem in Ukraine. Zelensky's reinstatement of their independence was met with alarm from the G7 nations, who warned it could jeopardize Ukraine's EU integration.

The president has been questioned about his awareness of potential corruption within his inner circle, with former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov urging him to address the allegations.