Ukraine's top prosecutor resigns amid disability status scandal
The Prosecutor General of Ukraine, Andriy Kostin, announced his resignation on Tuesday. His decision to step down followed the revelation that some prosecutors were unlawfully obtaining disabled status to avoid being mobilised to fight against Russia.
Kostin announced his resignation following the meeting of the National Security and Defence Council, which was chaired by Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky.
Kostin's statement, as reported by the Kyiv Independent, highlighted numerous troubling instances of abuse within Ukraine's prosecutorial system. The former prosecutor also mentioned that inspections are being conducted at all levels to address the issues.
Resignation after Security Council meeting
The former Prosecutor General of Ukraine stressed the importance of overturning any unlawful decisions related to disability status, pensions, and other benefits overseen by prosecutors, implementing clear legislative and organizational reforms, and personal accountability, including political responsibility.
During the meeting – which also included President Volodymyr Zelensky – the issue of Ukraine joining NATO was discussed. "We are not discussing this. But I think that these media leaks are not accidental. Perhaps some partners may have such thoughts. They don’t communicate this directly with me, but through the media, it’s clear they’re testing its reception," said Zelensky in a conversation with journalists.
