German Chancellor Friedrich Merz considers Ukraine's entry into the European Union within the next two years unrealistic.
According to "Hvylya," citing NW, the politician commented on Ukrainian officials' demands to join the bloc by 2027, stating such a timeline is unattainable.
"Joining on January 1, 2027, is out of the question. It is impossible," Merz said following consultations between SPD and CDU/CSU leaders in Berlin.
The Chancellor explained that any candidate country must meet the Copenhagen criteria—a process that typically takes years—and therefore immediate results should not be expected. However, he noted that the prospect of membership remains vital for Kyiv.
"We can gradually bring Ukraine closer to the European Union. That is always possible, but such a rapid accession is simply not feasible," the head of the German government emphasized.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul added that Ukraine's European integration is crucial for Europe’s security architecture. However, he warned there can be no "shortcuts" in the accession process.