European Union countries are discussing the creation of a new format for interaction with Ukraine, which involves providing short-term privileges instead of rapid accession to the bloc. This is reported by Politico, citing European diplomats.
According to the publication, the initiative involves expanding Ukraine's access to the EU internal market, as well as more active participation in European programs and institutions. This approach is referred to in the EU as the model of 'accelerated gradual integration.'
The discussion began after EU member states rejected the idea of expedited membership for Ukraine until all necessary reforms are completed during an informal meeting.
Diplomats note that full membership for Ukraine in the European Union is considered unrealistic in the near term; however, allies are seeking ways to strengthen economic and institutional integration right now.
Among the countries involved in developing this approach are Germany and France. They support Ukraine but oppose excessive acceleration of the membership process.
Separately, Lithuania's proposal to grant Ukraine the status of a 'candidate country,' which was previously applied to countries in the final stages of joining the EU, is being discussed.
The Ukrainian side, in turn, insists on maintaining the goal of full membership but welcomes practical steps to deepen integration at the current stage.
The Ukrainian ambassador to the EU noted that Kyiv expects phased access to the single market, expanded participation in EU programs, and accelerated sectoral agreements that could yield economic benefits before formal membership.
The issue of EU enlargement remains a topic of discussion within the bloc. Several countries, including France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy, are cautious about the idea of expedited admission of new members.
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