Ukraine’s request for a quick entry into the European Union (EU) as part of a peace deal to end the war with Russia is facing strong opposition from several EU governments. These governments are wary of the problems that a rapid accession might create. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is aiming for Ukraine to join the EU by 2027 as a way to establish stronger ties with Europe, hoping this will lead to increased prosperity, security, and stability for his country. Having a clear pathway to EU membership would also help Zelenskiy convince Ukrainians to accept any peace settlement, especially since it is likely that Ukraine will not regain all of its territory or join NATO.
However, key EU nations such as France and Germany have expressed doubts about reforming the accession process to allow Ukraine to join more quickly. Many diplomats are concerned that if Ukraine is granted membership too soon, it may not pursue necessary reforms, including addressing corruption. Taras Kachka, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister and lead EU negotiator, indicated that Ukraine is ready to tackle EU members’ concerns and suggested possible safeguards, including a monitoring system to ensure compliance with democratic standards and a transition period for receiving EU agricultural subsidies. He stressed that establishing a membership date is crucial for the peace process and for achieving lasting stability in Europe.
The existing process for joining the EU is lengthy and complicated, typically involving many years of negotiations and reforms to comply with EU standards. Each step requires the approval of all EU member states. Ukraine has already faced obstacles, such as opposition from Hungary, which has hindered its progress. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has considered changes to this process that could allow countries to join the EU after meeting minimal requirements while having limited access to funds and decision-making until they fulfill all criteria. This proposal could potentially speed up membership for Ukraine and other countries like Moldova, Montenegro, and Albania, but achieving Zelenskiy’s 2027 goal seems unlikely, as all 27 EU members must ratify any new membership.
Kachka proposed that Ukraine could sign an accession treaty next year, even if full implementation takes longer. However, analysts and diplomats perceive a lack of enthusiasm for such proposals, including the concept of “reverse enlargement,” which would allow countries to join before meeting all current requirements. Growing support for anti-enlargement parties in several countries makes them cautious about altering the accession process. One EU diplomat expressed that the idea of reverse enlargement is essentially dead, and there is no consensus on providing a specific accession date, with concerns raised about Ukraine’s readiness and corruption.
Despite these challenges, the European Commission is likely to keep pushing for Ukraine’s integration into the EU in the coming years, arguing that membership would enhance the Union’s military strength in light of potential threats from Russia. Some experts suggest that a gradual integration model may be more practical, allowing Ukraine to engage with EU programs and policies without full membership immediately. Overall, while full accession soon appears improbable, accelerated integration in specific areas may be a more realistic outcome for Ukraine.
With information from Reuters
