Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced during a European Union Council meeting on May 11 that the country is actively working toward officially commencing negotiations for EU membership on May 26.
Sybiha conveyed to EU foreign ministers that Ukraine is hopeful for the initiation of these talks, emphasizing that the launch of the first negotiation cluster would represent a significant milestone in Ukraine’s journey toward EU membership.
In discussions surrounding expedited EU accession, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously expressed hopes for membership by 2027. However, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on January 28 that immediate accession is not feasible, labeling the prospect of joining the bloc by January 1, 2027, as “excluded” and “impossible.” He highlighted that any candidate country must first meet the Copenhagen criteria, a process that typically spans several years. Merz underscored the necessity for Ukraine to have a long-term perspective for EU integration.
On January 29, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi noted that many EU member states are keen to see Ukraine join the bloc by 2027. While exact timelines remain uncertain, efforts to accelerate Ukraine’s integration into the EU are ongoing.
Additionally, Zelenskyy stated on January 30 that Ukraine aims to be fully prepared for EU membership, with all negotiation clusters finalized by the end of 2026. On February 5, Ihor Zhovkva, Deputy Head of the President’s Office, reiterated that Ukraine is counting on a political decision regarding EU membership by 2027, which he believes is crucial for future security guarantees for both Ukraine and Europe.
Ukraine's Foreign Minister has announced plans to initiate EU membership negotiations on May 26, amid ongoing discussions about the timeline for accession. While hopes for joining by 2027 exist, EU officials emphasize the need for compliance with established criteria.