Germany Rules Out 2027 Target for Ukraine’s EU Accession

Speaking at a press briefing in Berlin on Wednesday, Merz said Germany has informed the United States that Ukraine joining the EU on January 1, 2027, is not feasible.

“We have told the Americans that Ukraine’s accession on January 1, 2027, is out of the question. It is not possible,” Merz said, adding that all countries seeking EU membership must meet the Copenhagen criteria.

Copenhagen Criteria Emphasised

The Copenhagen criteria, established in 1993, define the political, economic, and legal conditions required for EU accession. These include stable democratic institutions, a functioning market economy, and the ability to adopt and implement the EU’s legal framework.

“The processes usually take several years,” Merz said. “Ukraine must have the prospect of becoming a member of the European Union, but this is a long-term process.”

Focus on Diplomacy and Peace Talks

Merz said Ukraine’s immediate priority should be ongoing negotiations involving the United States and Russia, which are currently taking place in Abu Dhabi. He expressed cautious optimism that the talks could lead to an agreement.

Russia and Ukraine held discussions on Friday and Saturday, with U.S. mediation, aimed at exploring possible peace settlement options.

Kyiv Pushes for Accelerated Membership

Ukraine applied for EU membership shortly after Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022 and has repeatedly called for accelerated integration, framing EU accession as a core security guarantee.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated that position in a post on X following a recent conversation with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker.

“Ukraine’s accession to the European Union is one of the key security guarantees not only for us, but also for all of Europe,” Zelensky wrote, adding that Kyiv continues to seek a concrete accession date of 2027 with partner support.