Ukraine’s “Associate Membership”: Ireland Criticizes the Idea
24 May 01:16
The “associated membership” model for Ukraine proposed by Germany could leave the country in a state of uncertainty and slow its progress toward full membership in the European Union. This was stated by Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee, as quoted by Euronews and reported by "Komersant Ukrainian".
According to her, any new integration model should not create a “two-tier system” of EU membership, where candidate countries end up in different categories with different prospects.
She also warned that interim status could reduce candidate countries’ motivation to carry out necessary reforms, particularly in the area of the rule of law, and consequently “freeze” their progress.
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As a reminder, the discussion follows an initiative by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who proposed creating a special status for Ukraine with access to certain EU institutions and funding programs, but without full voting rights. The idea also envisages Ukraine’s gradual integration into European structures.
The European Commission generally welcomes the discussion on “innovative solutions,” but emphasizes that the enlargement process must remain fair to all countries and be based on the fulfillment of criteria.
Ukraine, for its part, insists on full EU membership. Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga stated that no interim formats can replace the country’s strategic goal.
Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing in Brussels regarding the resumption of the negotiation process with Ukraine, which has been partially stalled due to Hungary’s position. It is expected that the next decisions could be made as early as June.
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