European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos states that Ukraine's EU accession by 2027 is a possibility if the EU adapts its enlargement methodology to the current geopolitical context.
During the 9th Ukrainian Lunch at the Munich Security Conference, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos discussed the potential timeline for Ukraine's accession to the European Union, indicating that 2027 is not an impossible target. She emphasized that the existing EU enlargement methodology is outdated, being originally designed for peacetime scenarios, and emphasized the need for it to be reformed to adequately support Ukraine's ambitions amidst the ongoing conflict. Kos pointed out that Ukraine has already forced the EU to reassess its priorities and invigorate discussions regarding enlargement.
Kos also highlighted the critical importance of security in Europe, suggesting that the region has become complacent over time. She acknowledged that under the current legal frameworks, the challenges facing Ukraine in implementing necessary reforms and fulfilling EU membership requirements are significant. The EU must adapt to meet these new realities while supporting Ukraine's reform agenda, emphasizing the need for urgency and responsiveness in the EU's approach to enlargement.
The context of these remarks underscores a broader conversation in Europe regarding the balance between EU expansion and the immediate need for security in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions. The implications of Ukraine's potential EU membership are profound, as they relate not only to the future of Ukraine itself but also to the geopolitical landscape of Europe and the EU's role in ensuring stability and security across the continent.
