No 'ersatz membership': Ukraine demands full EU rights from day one
Photo: Andrii Sybiha (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine opposes phased membership in the European Union and is moving quickly to meet all required criteria for legislative and regulatory transformation, according to Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
“There is a position from the president (Volodymyr Zelenskyy — ed.) that we will not accept any ‘ersatz memberships.’ This is a clear stance. There are several centers generating ideas and exploring possible steps, but not only from Ukraine’s perspective,” Sybiha said.
According to him, partners understand Ukraine’s position and its determination to meet all necessary criteria on the path to EU membership.
“Today, at the EU Council meeting I attended, our progress in adopting a large body of legislation was noted. The question of whether we are ready or not is rhetorical. There are clear criteria and benchmarks, and we are fulfilling them. We are moving very quickly,” the foreign minister added.
He also stressed that Ukraine still has a path to complete in terms of European integration, particularly adapting and adopting extensive legislation.
“Believe me, I think this is not resistance. There are always different assessments, but it is not resistance — it may be an attempt to avoid situations where we previously accepted certain conditions without sufficient consideration,” Sybiha said.
In his view, adjustments to positions are possible, as Ukraine must protect its businesses, while European standards must be implemented in the country.
“We need to focus on the greatest benefits for the country, which will have a multiplier effect. We should not be afraid of certain exceptions or the concept of ‘transitional periods.’ I mean what we must defend as a state — for our economy and for our people — but without resisting the process,” the minister concluded.
Background
Earlier this year, it was reported that the European Commission is discussing a two-stage accession model that could allow Ukraine to join the EU more quickly, but with limited rights at the initial stage.
The new model could grant Ukraine formal membership without full voting rights at leaders’ summits and ministerial meetings.
At the same time, Kyiv would receive gradual access to the EU single market, agricultural subsidies, and development funds after meeting specific milestones even after accession.
Meanwhile, European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier said in December 2025 that the timeline for Ukraine’s accession depends on the implementation of reforms. The Ukrainian government has stated its intention to complete accession negotiations by the end of 2028.
