Ukraine remains committed to full membership in the European Union, signaling that any path toward Brussels must culminate in accession rather than intermediate arrangements. In a recent interview with a major publication, Denis Shmygal, the prime minister, reiterated Kyiv’s stance that there are no substitutes for joining the EU and that the country will pursue a complete membership deal rather than a phased or provisional role within the bloc.
The report notes that Germany and France are urging caution among international partners, suggesting options that could advance Ukraine’s eventual integration without forcing a rapid or immediate accession. Berlin and Paris appear to favor approaches that would lay groundwork for gradual alignment with EU norms, institutions, and standards, potentially easing the path for Kyiv over time.
Shmygal was clear in asserting that Ukraine would not tolerate a slower pace or softened commitments. He emphasized that Kyiv’s objective is not simply closer ties or a limited association but full membership. The Prime Minister stated that the government is intensifying work toward that goal and expressed confidence that Ukraine could meet the criteria and participate in the EU as a member within the next two years, provided the political circumstances and reforms stay on track. He also underscored the profound significance of EU membership for the Ukrainian people, framing it as a decisive landmark for the country’s future security, economic development, and international standing.
The dialogue comes amid ongoing considerations by EU leadership regarding how to handle Ukraine’s application and the mechanisms for support that accompany accession. Past discussions included the prolongation of asylum provisions for Ukrainian citizens, a step viewed by Kyiv as a transitional measure rather than a substitute for full membership. Ukraine’s leadership has consistently linked its future to the EU’s broader strategic framework, arguing that a successful accession would strengthen the European project and reinforce regional stability.
Experts observe that while the path to membership is complex and contingent on rigorous reforms, Kyiv remains focused on meeting the EU’s formal criteria. The government’s approach blends political resolve with practical reform efforts across governance, the rule of law, economic policy, and administrative capacity. Support from domestic constituencies and international partners has grown, with many observers noting that sustained progress on reforms could accelerate negotiations and align Ukraine more closely with EU decision-making processes, economic standards, and mobility rules. In this view, Ukraine’s accession is framed not only as a national ambition but as a strategic milestone that could influence broader European security and economic dynamics in the coming years.