Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s persistent efforts to expedite Ukraine’s accession to the European Union have led to heightened tensions with European capitals. This situation has emerged as EU leaders have refrained from accelerating the membership process, resulting in disappointment in Kyiv.
Recent discussions among EU leaders, particularly from France and Germany, have proposed a phased approach to Ukraine’s EU membership. Under this plan, Ukraine would receive “symbolic” benefits and gradual access to EU mechanisms in exchange for implementing necessary reforms. Officials have indicated that full membership could remain a decade away.
In response to inquiries about the Franco-German proposal during a press conference in Kyiv last week, Zelensky emphasized the need for fairness, asserting that Ukraine does not seek symbolic membership. According to two senior Ukrainian officials, Zelensky has instructed his diplomats to avoid discussions with EU governments regarding such proposals, insisting that the focus should solely be on full membership. One official stated, “We will not even discuss it.”
During an informal summit in Cyprus in April, several EU leaders attempted to temper Zelensky’s expectations. Sources familiar with the negotiations reported that he was confronted with some difficult truths, with one official remarking, “It will not be as simple as he thinks.” Despite this, Zelensky remains committed to his ambitious stance, with officials indicating that Kyiv believes the EU will eventually adopt a more realistic approach aligned with Ukraine’s position.
European diplomats have expressed understanding of the pressures Zelensky faces following four years of conflict, acknowledging his frustrations. However, they stress that the enlargement process must remain merit-based, particularly as the EU has become Ukraine’s most significant partner in the absence of direct military and financial support from the United States.
One unnamed official noted, “We are the only friends he has, so it might be better for him to hold his tongue.” Concerns have also been raised regarding the slowdown of Ukraine’s reform efforts, especially in critical areas such as the rule of law and anti-corruption measures. EU diplomats pointed to missed deadlines for implementing legislation that would allow Kyiv broader access to EU energy and industrial markets.
Additionally, Ukraine has resisted Brussels’ request to raise business taxes as a condition for accessing a portion of a €90 billion loan, arguing that such measures would burden the economy. An unnamed source stated, “Their internal reforms have stalled. This is detrimental, and everyone knows it.”
In related developments, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated last week that immediate EU membership for Ukraine is not feasible. He suggested offering Kyiv participation in European Council meetings without voting rights and involvement in certain formats with other institutions, such as the European Parliament.
President Zelensky's push for rapid EU membership has led to tensions with European leaders, who propose a phased approach instead. Concerns over stalled reforms and economic conditions complicate Ukraine's accession aspirations.
Source: Європейська правда