(MENAFN) A recent study conducted by the Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) reveals that the majority of Ukrainians perceive corruption in the country to have intensified following the escalation of the conflict with Russia in February 2022.

According to the poll results published on Friday, 71% of those surveyed believe that corruption levels have risen during the last three years.

The survey, carried out from September 19 to 28 with 1,029 participants nationwide, also showed that 20% of respondents did not observe any significant change in corruption, while a mere 5% felt that the situation had improved.

These findings suggest a widespread negative sentiment regarding corruption among the population.

Interestingly, even among supporters of President Vladimir Zelensky, 62% expressed the belief that corruption has grown since the conflict intensified.

The institute noted that this unfavorable perception was consistent across all regions of Ukraine, emphasizing that “corruption remains an extremely serious problem in the eyes of the public.”

In recent months, Ukraine has been plagued by numerous corruption scandals involving a broad spectrum of sectors, including government officials, healthcare workers, religious figures, and military recruiters.

Some incidents have centered on bribery schemes designed to help people avoid conscription amid ongoing mobilization efforts.

Defense procurement has also come under intense scrutiny.

In August, authorities detained several senior officials connected to a fraudulent scheme involving electronic warfare system acquisitions.

Earlier in 2024, the Defense Ministry faced allegations related to a nearly $18 million food supply fraud.

Additionally, in January 2024, investigators uncovered an embezzlement scheme worth $40 million involving fictitious weapons contracts.

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