In a recent interview with the Financial Times, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has emphasized the urgent need for the European Union to set a clear date for Ukraine's accession. He believes that the lack of a definitive timeline is not only frustrating for Ukraine, but it also plays into the hands of Moscow, potentially jeopardizing the country's future and stability. By proposing 2027 as a target year for accession, Zelenskyy is advocating for a more expedited and less vague integration process that would give Ukraine a stronger position against external threats.

Zelenskyy's comments come against the backdrop of Ukraine's application for EU membership submitted in February 2022, shortly after the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion. This application reflected a significant shift in Ukraine's geopolitical aspirations, seeking closer ties with Europe in light of ongoing aggression from Russia. He argues that without a firm commitment from Brussels, future generations of Ukrainian leaders may be forced to navigate an extended period where Russia could effectively block Ukraine's membership, extending the uncertainty for decades.

By calling for urgency and clarity from the European Union, Zelenskyy's appeal highlights the intertwined fates of Ukraine and the EU in the context of security and sovereignty. A clear timeline could bolster Ukraine’s defenses and encourage further political and economic support from allies, while potentially drawing a more distinct line for Russian influence in the region. Setting a concrete date for accession could signal a renewed commitment from the EU to support Ukraine's ambitions, as well as a strategic move to curtail Russian expansionism.