Ukraine's Zelensky says proposal of associate EU membership 'unfair'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected a German proposal that would grant Ukraine associate membership in the European Union without voting rights. In a letter to EU leaders, Zelensky described the plan as "unfair," arguing that it would leave Ukraine voiceless within the bloc.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had suggested the interim step as a way to potentially facilitate a peace deal to end the ongoing war with Russia. However, Zelensky countered that the removal of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a vocal opponent of Ukraine's EU membership, following recent elections, presented an opportunity for substantive progress in accession talks. He asserted that "the time is right to move forward with Ukraine's membership in a full and meaningful way."

“

We are defending Europe – fully, not partially, and not with half-measures. Ukraine deserves a fair approach and equal rights within Europe.

Zelensky thanked European leaders for their support during the conflict and highlighted Ukraine's crucial role as a bulwark against Russian aggression for the entire 27-nation bloc. "We are defending Europe – fully, not partially, and not with half-measures," he stated, adding that Ukraine deserves a fair approach and equal rights within Europe.

“

It would be unfair for Ukraine to be present in the European Union, but remain voiceless. The time is right to move forward with Ukraine's membership in a full and meaningful way.