Ukraine’s Call for Fast-Track EU Membership
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addressed European Union leaders on Thursday, asserting that Ukraine deserves a swift pathway to membership “more than any other European country.” His remarks came during a European Council meeting in Brussels, where he reiterated Ukraine’s long-standing ambition to join the EU, a goal formally pursued since shortly before Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
“Let’s not forget that Ukraine deserves it because it has paid more than any other European country for the right to be free and independent,” Zelenskiy told the EU leaders. He emphasized the broader implications, stating that this right also extends to other nations aiming to break free from Russian influence.
Zelenskiy further argued that Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression is pivotal to the “future of Europe.” He claimed that granting Ukraine expedited EU membership would significantly undermine Russia’s motives to destabilize both Ukraine and the broader region. “That’s why this highway is so needed for Ukraine,” he added.
Ukraine’s pursuit of EU membership has gained momentum in light of recent developments, including the EU agreeing to launch negotiations for membership for both Ukraine and Moldova. These discussions are ongoing amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
After the meeting in Brussels, Zelenskiy shared in an audio message with journalists that “all leaders recognize that Ukraine’s military is the strongest in Europe, and the EU will benefit from its expertise.” He noted that Ukraine’s military strength makes it comparable to NATO’s second strongest army.
Zelenskiy and his government have rejected alternatives to full EU membership, viewing a fast-track route as critical for the nation’s future. Recently, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposed that Ukraine be considered for “associate member” status, which would provide limited benefits without full voting rights. However, Zelenskiy quickly dismissed this idea. A few days later, the Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration also reiterated that there was no substitute for a fast path to EU membership for Ukraine.
Despite Ukraine’s push for early EU membership, it has faced criticism over the past few years for failing to tackle issues like corruption, which some argue go against EU principles and values. In April, Zelenskiy contended that the EU should expand and incorporate more countries to “fight Russia,” suggesting that even Britain should reconsider its exit from the bloc.
