An EU official, speaking anonymously, revealed that Brussels is considering the concept of ‘gradual membership’ to speed up Ukraine’s accession process.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, has declared the nation’s goal to become part of the European Union by 2027.
After a phone call with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, Zelenskyy posted on X that joining the EU could represent one of several international security guarantees when the conflict concludes.
«Ukraine’s entry into the European Union stands as a principal security guarantee not only for Ukraine itself but for the entire European continent,» Zelenskyy stated, highlighting Ukraine’s contributions to Europe’s collective security, technology advancements, and economic strength.
«This is why a specific target year, 2027, is being discussed, with expectations of partner nations supporting this stance.»
At a press briefing in Vilnius, Lithuania, two days prior, Zelenskyy mentioned that Ukraine will be technically prepared for EU membership in 2027, contingent on opening all negotiation chapters within this year.
After Russia’s full-scale invasion began, Ukraine was granted candidate status in 2022, and formal accession negotiations launched in 2024.
Nevertheless, Hungary opposes the initiation of negotiation chapters, citing concerns over security risks and economic implications tied to Ukraine’s entry.
Balázs Orbán, a political advisor to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, criticized Zelenskyy’s ambitions in a post on X.
«This represents an immediate and direct threat to both Europeans and Hungarians, motivating the patriotic government to resist it,» he asserted.
Currently, the European Union provides technical assistance to Kyiv, preparing for chapter closures once political barriers are removed.
EU explores phased integration as a possibility
An EU official familiar with the accession process confirmed that the option of “gradual integration” is being debated regarding Ukraine’s potential membership.
«There is an ongoing dialogue about whether EU enlargement should be approached differently: at present, the process ends with a definitive yes or no once all requirements are fulfilled,» explained the official, noting that member states are contemplating a new method.
«Could it be feasible to enter the EU partially while still progressing through integration steps?»
The official told Euronews that despite Hungary’s veto, Ukraine achieved significant progress in 2025, completing the fastest screening ever recorded for an EU candidate, with Brussels increasing support to help Kyiv finalize accession dossiers.
«We are doing everything possible to assist Ukraine with reforms and provide exhaustive updates to the Council, empowering it to take informed decisions,» the EU official said, emphasizing that Ukraine simultaneously manages war, peace negotiations, and EU accession efforts.