Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to sign a bill targeting the independence of anti-corruption agencies followed mounting investigations that involved high-ranking officials and those close to the president.

Zelensky on Thursday said he had approved a draft bill guaranteeing the freedom of anti-corruption bodies, a move the EU welcomed.

Ukraine's government is facing growing backlash after President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law limiting the independence of two anti-corruption agencies.