Kyiv Speeds Up Reforms, but Europe Points to a Longer Road
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that his country could be ready to join the European Union by 2027. According to the Ukrainian leader, the key reforms required for EU membership are expected to be completed by the end of 2026. This was stated in a declaration published by the president’s office.
Zelensky stressed that Ukraine wants a clearer and more predictable timetable from the European Union. “I want Ukraine to have a clear timeline,” he said, reaffirming his government’s determination to continue large-scale reforms in governance, the economy, and the rule of law.
Candidate Status Secured, but Timelines Remain Unclear
Ukraine received official EU candidate status in the summer of 2022. Since then, Kyiv has repeatedly urged European institutions to accelerate the accession process and avoid unnecessary delays. President Zelensky has said he would like the entire process to be completed by the end of 2028.
However, in the view of Der Spiegel, despite strong political support for Ukraine, a fast-track accession scenario appears unrealistic. The German magazine notes that the European Union continues to emphasize that reforms must not only be adopted but also effectively implemented — a process that requires time and institutional stability.
EU Membership as a Security Factor
For Ukraine, joining the European Union is not only a political objective but also a strategic one. Ukrainian officials stress that EU membership is associated with security guarantees comparable in scope to those of NATO. For this reason, accelerating European integration is seen in Kyiv as a key element of national security.
Berlin Casts Doubt on a Rapid Accession
Germany has taken a more cautious view of Ukraine’s prospects. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that Ukraine joining the EU as early as 1 January 2027 is out of the question. “It is not possible,” he said, referring to the so-called Copenhagen criteria that every candidate country must meet.
According to Merz, fulfilling these conditions typically takes several years. At the same time, he acknowledged the importance of Ukraine having a clear European perspective: gradual integration is possible, but a formal accession process inevitably requires much more time.
Final Decision Lies with All EU Member States
Even if there is political agreement in Brussels, Ukraine’s accession would still need approval from the European Parliament, the governments of all EU member states, and their national parliaments. This makes the process not only lengthy but also politically sensitive for the entire European Union.
This article was prepared based on materials published by Der Spiegel. The author does not claim authorship of the original text but presents their interpretation of the content for informational purposes.
The original article can be found at the following link: Der Spiegel.
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