‘No alternative to full EU membership’, Ukraine’s deputy PM tells Euronews
No Alternative to Full EU Membership: Ukraine's Deputy PM Stands Firm
No alternative to full EU membership - Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Taras Kachka, has reaffirmed that the nation’s path to EU membership must remain unambiguous. In an exclusive conversation with Euronews, Kachka emphasized that Kyiv sees no substitute for rapid, merit-based, and complete integration into the European Union. This stance comes as European leaders debate alternative pathways for Ukraine, including the possibility of associate membership before full accession.
Earlier this month, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposed the idea of Ukraine becoming an “associate member” of the EU. Kachka dismissed this suggestion as “unacceptable if it is an alternative to full membership.” He stressed that Ukraine requires a “swift, comprehensive, and normal accession process” that will culminate in the signing of a treaty under Article 49 of the EU’s founding document. According to Kachka, any deviation from this path would undermine the country’s ambitions.
“We believe that all six clusters can be open already in June,” Kachka stated. “Our timeline is that we are already behind the deadline.”
Kyiv is pushing to expedite its EU accession process, aiming to have all negotiation clusters opened in June 2026—before the originally planned July deadline. The clusters, which focus on critical reform areas, are designed to ensure alignment with EU standards. These include the rule of law, judicial reforms, and other key sectors. Kachka argued that the formal opening of clusters would not signify a new beginning, as Ukraine has already completed the groundwork.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos outlined a timeline where the first cluster could be launched in June during Cyprus’ EU presidency, with the remaining five following by July as Ireland assumes the rotating leadership. Kachka, however, pointed out that this timeline was already delayed. He accused Brussels of maintaining a “certain prejudice” toward Ukraine, particularly regarding the timing of its accession process.
“For Ukraine, it started like 15 years ago, or even earlier, when we negotiated the association agreement,” Kachka noted. “All the benchmarks that are already defined by the European Union are easily implemented in the forthcoming 12 to 18 months.” This highlights the long-standing relationship between Kyiv and the EU, despite recent frustrations with the pace of progress.
Hungarian Veto and Diplomatic Reconciliation
Ukraine’s journey to EU membership has faced hurdles, notably a Hungarian veto that stalled its accession steps for years. Kachka expressed hope that this obstacle would be lifted under the new Hungarian prime minister, Péter Magyar. He cited recent consultations between Kyiv and Budapest on the rights of the Hungarian minority in Ukraine as a positive development.
“Ukraine treats the Hungarian community in Ukraine with full respect,” Kachka asserted. “For us, they are an absolutely integral part of Ukrainian society, with all respect to their national identity.”
Kachka highlighted Ukraine’s efforts to address concerns about the Hungarian minority, including the establishment of nearly 100 schools where the Hungarian language is taught. He argued that this infrastructure ensures that every child in Ukraine who wishes to study in Hungarian or combine it with Ukrainian has the opportunity to do so. This, he said, demonstrates Ukraine’s commitment to preserving cultural diversity while advancing European integration.
Previously, Kyiv extended the same offer to Hungary as it had to former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán: to fine-tune legislation so that “this incredibly good atmosphere will not change.” Kachka urged Budapest to act swiftly, noting that the dialogue on national minorities will persist indefinitely. “The dialogue on national minorities between Ukraine and Hungary will last permanently,” he said, underscoring the importance of sustained cooperation.
Concerns Over Polish Opposition
While the Hungarian veto may be resolved, Kachka warned that other member states could still pose challenges. He mentioned Polish agriculture as a key concern, stating that “there is no big secret that Polish agriculture treats Ukrainian agriculture as competition.” This has led to discussions between Kyiv and Warsaw to address potential sector-specific issues.
“We see no intention to block the opening of the clusters, but we see the good faith will to find a solution for these sensitive and complicated topics with Poland and our neighbours and with other member states as well,” Kachka explained. “This one will be the most delicate.”
Kachka emphasized that Ukraine is prepared to engage in constructive dialogue with all EU members, including Poland. He stressed that the country’s reforms are “easily implemented” within the next year and a half, provided there is mutual understanding. “Our timeline is that we are already behind the deadline,” he reiterated, signaling urgency in the negotiations.
The deputy prime minister also framed the EU’s current approach as a test of Ukraine’s dedication. By insisting on full membership, Kyiv aims to demonstrate that its commitment to European values is unwavering. This includes economic alignment, political stability, and adherence to democratic principles. Kachka’s comments reflect a broader strategy to position Ukraine as a model candidate for EU entry.
With the European Union facing pressure to meet Ukraine’s aspirations, Kachka’s statements underscore the nation’s determination. The opening of negotiation clusters in June 2026 represents a critical milestone, one that Kyiv believes is within reach. As Brussels navigates the complexities of enlargement, Ukraine remains steadfast in its demand for a clear and accelerated path to full membership, rejecting any notion of a less ambitious alternative.
Ultimately, Kachka’s message is one of resolve. Ukraine’s integration into the EU, he argued, is not just a political goal but a necessity for its future. “Everything else, he said, ‘doesn’t matter’” in the context of achieving full membership. This bold assertion reinforces the deputy prime minister’s position that the EU must recognize Ukraine’s progress and move forward without hesitation.