Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
The two leaders are different in many ways, but the latest move from Zelenskyy might be the most telling.
The two leaders are different in many ways, but the latest move from Zelenskyy might be the most telling.
What is happening?
Earlier this week, Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskyy approved a bill that weaked the Ukrainian anti-corrupton bodies by effectively putting them under the control of the Prosecutor General.
Protests erupt
The move sparked rare protests from soldiers, tech workers, and civil society, all fearing a step back from democratic reform.
Protesters filled squares and took to social media, urging the government to reverse course of weakening independent watchdogs during wartime risks Ukraine’s integrity—and its EU aspirations.
International Pressure Mounts
The EU, G7, and international watchdogs echoed domestic concerns.
Ukraine’s Western allies warned that the law could derail anti-corruption efforts and hurt foreign support.
Zelenskyy Reverses Course
In a rare move for any wartime president, Zelenskyy responded to the protests by supporting a new bill that restores the independence of Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies.
In a statement following its review of the new draft law, the anti-corruption bodies said the legislation would “restore all procedural powers and guarantees of independence” for both bodies.
Contrast with Putin’s Russia
Imagine this happening in Russia. It wouldn’t.
Under Putin, public protest typically ends in mass arrests, internet blackouts, or laws criminalizing dissent.
Laws aren’t changed due to protests—they’re often passed to prevent them altogether.
Russia: Protests Met With Iron Fists
In Russia, protests are often crushed before they gain momentum. The state uses arrests, intimidation, censorship, and sweeping legislation to silence critics.
Peaceful demonstrators—like those supporting Alexei Navalny—routinely face jail, fines, or worse.
Rule by Law vs Rule by Force
Zelenskyy’s response shows an effort to preserve institutional checks and balances.
In Putin’s Russia, the judiciary, media, and oversight bodies are tightly controlled, making peaceful protest not only ineffective—but dangerous.
Two Leaders, Two Worlds
Vladimir Putin’s Russia has long suppressed dissent with brute force
In contrast, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy reversed a controversial law because of public outcry—an act unthinkable under Putin’s rule.
A Test of Democratic Resilience
Ukraine’s ability to adapt—even under the strain of war—is a sign of democratic resilience.
Protest didn’t lead to violence or censorship; it led to dialogue, legislation, and reform.
That’s a rare trajectory in Eastern Europe.
Why It Matters for the World
As Ukraine fights for survival, it’s also fighting for a democratic identity.
The contrast with Russia is stark: one regime suppresses its people, the other—however imperfectly—still listens.
And that difference may define Ukraine’s future.
