The European Union is considering an unprecedented plan to grant Ukraine “partial membership” next year, aimed at strengthening the country’s position in Europe and distancing it from Russia, Politico reported, citing 10 officials and diplomats. Four years after the start of the war, Kiev wants Ukraine to join the EU by 2027, as part of a peace deal with Moscow. The plan, still in its early stages, would see Ukraine gain a seat at the EU table before it has completed all the reforms required for full membership.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Russia may try to block Ukraine's path to the EU and has called for a concrete date for the accession process. However, the main challenge remains unanimity among the 27 member states, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban firmly opposed to Ukraine's accession. European diplomats are considering ways to overcome his veto, including US influence and the intervention of former US President Donald Trump.
According to diplomats, the EU plan envisages several steps:
Ukraine preparation: The EU has launched informal guidelines for reforms and necessary funds. Zelensky said Ukraine would be ready by 2027. “Light” form of integration: Ukraine could gain partial rights and gradually take full part in EU decision-making, without lowering membership criteria.
Political obstacles: Orban remains opposed, but if he loses the election, his successor could change his stance.
US intervention: The Trump administration could play a role in ensuring that Hungary does not obstruct the process.
Extreme measures: If the obstacles persist, the EU could use Article 7 of its Treaty against Hungary, a political sanction that suspends certain member state rights.
European officials stressed that Ukraine’s membership must be accompanied by deep reforms and there will be no compromises in this process. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has considered the idea “creative and welcome”, saying that Albania could accept a temporary status for Ukraine. The proposal, if approved, would represent a dramatic change in the way the EU integrates new countries, offering a fast track to accession for countries in exceptional situations like Ukraine.
