‘No alternative to full EU membership’, Ukraine’s deputy PM tells Euronews
No alternative to full EU membership, Ukraine’s deputy PM tells Euronews
No alternative to full EU membership – Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Taras Kachka, emphasized in a recent interview with Euronews that the country has no choice but to pursue full membership in the European Union. According to Kachka, Kyiv’s goal is to achieve a “prompt, merit-driven, and complete EU integration” as soon as possible. He criticized any notion of partial or associate membership, arguing that such options would not meet Ukraine’s aspirations for a comprehensive and normalized relationship with the bloc.
The debate over Ukraine’s accession path gained momentum earlier this month when German Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposed the idea of granting Ukraine “associate membership” status before transitioning to full EU membership. Kachka dismissed this suggestion as an “unacceptable alternative” to full integration. He stressed that Ukraine requires a “swift and thorough accession process” that culminates in the formal signing of a treaty under Article 49 of the EU’s foundational document. “Every other consideration,” he stated, “is secondary to the necessity of a complete and binding membership.”
“There are no alternatives for the fast, merit-based, but full membership in the European Union,” Kachka said. “We need a process that will end with the signing of a treaty of accession under Article 49 of the Treaty of the European Union. Everything else doesn’t matter.”
In an effort to accelerate its EU accession process, Kyiv has pushed for the formal opening of all six negotiation clusters by June, moving ahead of the initially planned July timeline. Kachka expressed confidence that this goal is achievable, stating, “We believe that all six clusters can be open already in June. Our timeline is that we are already behind the deadline.” This shift reflects Kyiv’s determination to streamline its integration efforts and overcome bureaucratic delays.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos has also endorsed the accelerated timeline, noting that the first cluster could be launched during Cyprus’ EU presidency in June, with the remaining five expected to follow by July as Ireland assumes the rotating leadership role. Negotiation clusters, which cover critical reform areas such as the rule of law, judicial systems, and anti-corruption measures, are central to aligning Ukraine with EU standards. Each cluster requires the candidate nation to meet specific benchmarks, with final approval needing consensus from all 27 EU members.
Kachka argued that Ukraine has already fulfilled the prerequisites for initiating these negotiations, which means the formal opening of clusters should not be seen as a new beginning but rather the next step in a long-standing process. “So everything is already done, that’s why we’re already behind schedule,” he remarked, highlighting the country’s sustained efforts over the past decade. He also pointed out that there is “a certain prejudice” toward Ukraine in terms of the timing and circumstances of its accession bid, noting that the process began “around 15 years ago” with the association agreement negotiations.
Ukraine’s path to EU membership has faced significant hurdles, particularly from Hungary. The Hungarian government has historically vetoed Kyiv’s accession steps, citing concerns over minority rights. However, Kachka expressed optimism that this stance might be softened under the leadership of the new Hungarian prime minister, Péter Magyar. Recent consultations between Kyiv and Budapest have focused on addressing the rights of the Hungarian minority, a longstanding issue that has fueled tensions and blocked progress.
“Ukraine treats the Hungarian community in Ukraine with full respect,” Kachka asserted. “For us, they are an absolutely integral part of Ukrainian society, with all respect to their national identity.”
Kachka highlighted Ukraine’s commitment to preserving cultural diversity, citing the existence of nearly 100 schools where the Hungarian language is taught. “We have almost 100 schools for Hungarians satisfying all demands,” he said. “So that means that literally every pupil, every child in Ukraine who wants to learn in Hungarian or to learn the Hungarian language while studying in Ukrainian has this possibility to do.” This assurance aims to alleviate concerns in Hungary about the erosion of minority rights during Ukraine’s EU integration.
Despite the potential easing of Hungary’s stance, Kachka acknowledged that other member states might still pose challenges. He noted, “There is no big secret that Polish agriculture treats Ukrainian agriculture as competition.” Kyiv has already begun discussions with Warsaw and other EU capitals to address sector-specific issues, particularly those related to agriculture. While Kachka sees no clear intent to block the clusters’ opening, he warned that Poland could be the most delicate issue to resolve. “We see the good faith will to find a solution for these sensitive and complicated topics with Poland and our neighbours and with other member states as well,” he said.
Kachka’s comments come as Ukraine seeks to solidify its position in the EU enlargement process. By prioritizing full membership, Kyiv aims to secure a unified and robust framework for its future. The deputy prime minister stressed that the EU’s support is vital for Ukraine’s stability and growth, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges such as the war in Eastern Europe and the need for structural reforms. “The dialogue on national minorities between Ukraine and Hungary will last permanently,” he added, underscoring the importance of sustained cooperation to ensure a smooth accession process.
The urgency of Ukraine’s EU membership bid is driven by both political and economic considerations. The country has long sought to integrate into the EU to gain access to its markets, strengthen its security, and align with democratic values. Kachka’s remarks reflect the government’s resolve to push forward, even as it navigates the complexities of negotiations with member states. By highlighting the progress already made and the potential for a unified front, Kyiv aims to reassure Brussels of its commitment to reform and its readiness to meet the EU’s requirements.
As the EU prepares for the next phase of accession talks, the stakes for Ukraine remain high. The success of its bid will depend on the willingness of member states to overcome lingering objections and support its integration. Kachka’s insistence on full membership underscores the importance of this goal for Ukraine’s future, both in terms of political legitimacy and economic opportunity. With the negotiations set to begin in June, the deputy prime minister remains focused on ensuring that the process moves swiftly and decisively toward a complete and binding EU membership for his country.
