Ukraine says corrupt officials stole $40 million meant to buy arms for the war with Russia

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine’s security service says employees from an arms firm conspired with defense ministry officials to embezzle almost $40 million earmarked to buy mortar shells for the war with Russia. The SBU said late Saturday that five people have been charged and the money has been recovered. The investigation comes as Kyiv clamps down on corruption in an attempt to speed up its membership in the European Union and NATO. Officials from both blocs have demanded widespread anti-graft reforms before Kyiv can join them.