Zelenskyy against "associated" EU membership

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has categorically rejected the idea from German political circles for Ukraine to receive "associated" membership in the European Union. In an official letter to European leaders, he described this step as

"unfair," as it would deprive Kyiv of the right to vote on important decisions within the bloc.

What does the German proposal entail?

The idea, promoted by Friedrich Merz, provides for Ukraine to participate in EU summits and ministerial meetings, but without the possibility of participating in votes. According to the proponents, this should be a temporary measure on the path to full membership and a tool to facilitate the peace process.

New opportunities after the elections in Hungary

Zelenskyy stressed that the political situation has changed significantly after the parliamentary elections in Hungary on April 12, where Prime Minister Viktor Orbán lost power. According to the President of Ukraine, the removal of one of the biggest opponents of Kyiv's European integration opens a "historic window" for real progress.

  • Ukraine as a bastion of European security.
  • A demand for equal rights and meaningful membership.
  • Rejection of "half-measures."

"We are defending Europe entirely, not partially," Zelenskyy stated in his message to António Costa, Ursula von der Leyen, and Nikos Christodoulides, insisting that his country deserves fair treatment after years of resistance against Russian aggression.