Ukraine's ambition to secure an accelerated path to European Union membership as part of a peace settlement has met with stiff resistance from EU governments. Member states are reportedly unwilling to open a "Pandora's box" of complications that a rapid accession could trigger.
As reported by Hvylya, Reuters, citing European diplomats, indicates that President Volodymyr Zelensky is seeking to establish 2027 as a firm entry date into the bloc as part of a broader resolution to end the war with Russia. Analysts suggest that a clear roadmap to the EU could be vital for the Ukrainian public's acceptance of a peace deal, particularly if the country does not regain control over all its territories or secure NATO membership.
However, key EU governments, including France and Germany, have privately expressed skepticism regarding reforms to the accession process that would shorten Ukraine’s path. Among their primary concerns is the risk that Ukraine might halt critical reforms and the fight against corruption once membership is granted.
Taras Kachka, Deputy Minister of Economy and chief negotiator with the EU, stated that Kyiv is prepared to address the concerns of member states. He proposed a monitoring system for democratic standards and a transitional period before Ukraine receives agricultural subsidies. According to Kachka, a political commitment to a specific membership date is essential.
"This is necessary for the peace process, for establishing a lasting and just peace in Europe," Kachka emphasized, adding that Ukraine could at least sign an accession treaty next year.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reportedly proposed the idea of "reverse expansion" behind closed doors, where a country could join after meeting minimal requirements but with limited access to funds and decision-making power. However, diplomats note that this proposal failed to gain traction.
"The concept of reverse expansion is dead. There is also no support for granting a specific accession date," one European diplomat noted. Another Western European official added, "Ukraine is simply not ready and has rampant corruption."
Last week, Von der Leyen publicly informed Zelensky that establishing a concrete date is currently impossible, despite praising Ukrainian reforms carried out during the war. Experts predict that instead of full membership in the coming years, Kyiv may be offered accelerated integration into specific sectors, such as the single market, energy, and the digital sphere.