Ukraine's Deputy Premier: We are the key to a more autonomous Europe

In a heavily secured Kyiv, where government buildings bear the marks of war, Taras Kačka, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, spoke about the nation's path toward the European Union. Speaking after a roundtable on Ukraine's European future, Kačka emphasized the significance of unity, a point echoed by European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.

Kačka praised Kos's proactive approach, noting her search for practical and contemporary solutions that address current challenges. He explained that the EU enlargement process is moving away from a transitional paradigm, which characterized countries like Slovenia after the fall of communism, towards a model that better suits today's geopolitical landscape. This involves adapting to new realities and overcoming the complexities of post-Soviet transitions.

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I think mainly because Marta is extremely proactive and I am glad that she is looking for very practical and modern solutions that are alive. Those that respond to current challenges.

The deputy prime minister's remarks underscored Ukraine's commitment to its European aspirations amidst the ongoing conflict. The discussion, held in a city visibly prepared for the impacts of war, highlighted the dual focus on national security and strategic integration into European structures.

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And what we heard today at these public events and in all conversations is that a lot is being done to transform enlargement from a so-called transitional paradigm, as it was with Slovenia, i.e., a post-communist country after the transition from a planned to a market economy, from totalitarianism to democracy.