Don’t block Ukraine’s path to EU accession, Zelenskyy asks Hungary and Poland
EU Council Focus on Enlargement
Don t block Ukraine s path – During Ireland’s six-month presidency of the EU Council, the discussion around enlargement took precedence, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asserting that his nation had completed all necessary preparations to advance negotiations. Speaking at the opening ceremony in Dublin Castle, Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of Ukraine’s integration into the bloc, stating that the country had fulfilled all prerequisites for progressing through the stages of accession talks. His remarks came as a signal of determination, emphasizing that the process should not be impeded by any member states.
Tensions with Poland Escalate
Despite Zelenskyy’s efforts to secure support, relations with Poland have grown strained due to his decision to commemorate the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) by naming a military unit after it. This move has sparked backlash in Warsaw, where a significant portion of the population opposes Ukraine’s entry into the EU. Recent polls indicate that 60% of Polish citizens remain skeptical, citing historical grievances tied to the UPA’s role in the massacres of Poles during the Volhynia and Eastern Galicia campaigns. For Poland, these events are seen as a symbol of ethnic conflict and a justification for their opposition.
“From our side, we did everything what the Council, what all the leaders asked us to do. Even with some difficulties with the (Viktor) Orbán government, we did everything,” Zelenskyy said in response to a question from Euronews.
Zelenskyy acknowledged challenges in maintaining unity, particularly with Hungary’s government, but insisted that Ukraine had met the criteria for continued progress. His focus remained on the broader goal of EU membership, framing it as essential for securing the future of Europe. “It was not simple for us to do all these issues during the war, and I think this is also an important moment that we are saving and defending (…) of course, first of all, Ukraine, yes, but also other countries of Europe,” he added, underscoring the shared responsibility of safeguarding the bloc’s stability.
Cluster Progress and Political Challenges
So far, Ukraine has successfully opened just one cluster of negotiations titled “Fundamentals,” with the remaining five clusters still pending. The President expressed hope that these clusters would be cleared before the summer break, which would mark a critical juncture in the accession process. However, the ambitious timeline has been called into question, particularly after Hungary’s new prime minister, Péter Magyar, voiced concerns about Kyiv’s readiness. His comments reflect a cautious stance, suggesting that the path to EU membership may require more time than previously anticipated.
“We are defending the EU, and we have to think about security for our people for the future,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing the need for forward-looking cooperation.
Zelenskyy also addressed the historical disputes with Poland, acknowledging that “some internal questions” persist between the two nations. These questions stem from the complexities of their shared past, particularly the UPA’s actions during the Second World War. While the UPA is celebrated in Ukraine as a symbol of independence and resistance against Soviet rule, Poland views its role in the Volhynia massacres as a form of genocide. Zelenskyy urged both sides to move beyond these historical tensions and unite against the common threat of Russian expansionism.
Ireland’s Role in Mediating Disputes
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin has positioned himself as a mediator, stressing that the debate over enlargement requires a balance of historical perspective and political cooperation. “It’s not the first time that bilateral issues have been problematic for accession. We’ve had it several times in the Western Balkans, for example,” Martin noted, highlighting the cyclical nature of such challenges. He praised Hungary’s recent political shift as a “breath of fresh air,” suggesting that the country’s new approach could pave the way for more open negotiations. “Given what has happened in Hungary after the election and so on, it’s been a breath of fresh air in terms of the approach to Europe. We hope that follows through in terms of the opening of the clusters,” he added.
As part of its presidential priorities, Ireland has made EU enlargement a central theme, with the issue dominating discussions on the first day of its term. Officials in Dublin have emphasized a pragmatic strategy, aiming to navigate the complexities of accession while addressing the concerns of member states. The current consensus in Brussels is that the most realistic objective is to open one or two additional clusters by the summer break, with the remaining ones tackled incrementally in the months ahead.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
The UPA’s legacy remains a contentious issue, as it embodies both pride and pain for different nations. In Ukraine, the organization is revered for its fight against Soviet domination, while in Poland, it is scrutinized for its involvement in the Volhynia massacres. Zelenskyy, during his visit to the Irish capital, sought to reconcile these differing viewpoints by acknowledging the historical sensitivities but reiterating the importance of unity. “We are ready to find answers,” he said, indicating Ukraine’s willingness to engage in dialogue to resolve the dispute.
The decision to honor the UPA has had tangible consequences, including the withdrawal of Poland’s highest honor by its president, Karol Nawrocki. This gesture underscores the emotional weight of the issue, which has complicated diplomatic efforts. Zelenskyy’s message, however, remains clear: the EU’s expansion is not just a political goal but a necessity for Europe’s collective security. “Now we have one aggressor,” he said, pointing to Russia as the primary threat that unites all European nations. “We have to think about security for our people for the future.”
Steps Forward and Collective Responsibility
While the immediate hurdles remain, Zelenskyy and his team are working to align with the expectations of the EU Council. The President emphasized that Ukraine’s efforts should not be judged solely by past conflicts but by its commitment to the shared vision of a unified Europe. “It’s important that when we all have rules, it’s not just political emotions,” he reiterated, calling for a rules-based approach to enlargement. This sentiment aligns with Ireland’s broader strategy, which seeks to harmonize the interests of all member states while maintaining momentum for Ukraine’s accession.
As the negotiations continue, the focus will shift to resolving historical disputes and ensuring that Ukraine’s path to the EU remains unobstructed. The success of this process will depend on the willingness of nations like Hungary and Poland to prioritize the long-term benefits of enlargement over short-term political tensions. Zelenskyy’s appeal to these countries reflects a strategic effort to solidify support, even as he acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. The journey toward EU membership is not only about Ukraine’s future but also about reinforcing the resilience of the European project itself.
