Ukraine unlikely to join EU by 2028, Merz says
The idea of Ukraine joining the European Union by January 1, 2027, as proposed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, will not work. Even accession by 2028 is unrealistic, stated German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, according to Reuters.
"Zelenskyy had the idea of joining the EU on January 1, 2027. That will not work. Even January 1, 2028 is not realistic," the Chancellor said.
At the same time, Merz warned against overly optimistic expectations of a swift accession, noting that Ukraine cannot join the bloc while the war is ongoing.
According to Merz, the country must first meet strict criteria, particularly in terms of the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts.
Ukraine’s EU accession
Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously said the Ukrainian government would do everything possible to ensure the country is ready to join the European Union by 2027. Kyiv has called on Brussels to set January 1, 2027, as the date of Ukraine’s accession to the EU.
At the same time, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said that Ukraine’s accession to the EU in 2027 is impossible. According to her, the membership process depends on two key factors — achieving peace and carrying out reforms.
In addition, the governments of some European countries do not support active discussions or the acceleration of the accession of new members, including Ukraine. Among them are France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy.
Germany and France recently proposed a "lighter" membership format for Ukraine. It includes granting certain "symbolic" benefits and a mutual defense clause, but does not give Kyiv voting rights.
Friedrich Merz said Ukraine may have to accept the loss of some territories on its path to the EU. According to him, this could be part of a future peace agreement between Kyiv and Moscow.
