The EU previously voiced concerns about anti-corruption efforts in Ukraine, and some Ukrainian lawmakers have objected to changes being demanded by Brussels. Kachka said these objections were a normal part of the democratic process, but that rule-of-law reforms were under way.
Despite the optimism, the process will still be challenging. Capitals have already pushed back on the idea new countries could be waved through for geopolitical reasons, amid concerns that future governments could backslide on democracy and the rule of law, creating another confrontation like they have seen from Hungary. However, a broader discussion about reforming the process or admitting new members without full rights has not yet gotten off the ground.
“With the present Hungarian government it is possible to go on with the €90 billion loan, and with the new government, we will go on to with the accession process,” Kos said Wednesday.
Responding to reports France and Germany want to offer Ukraine “symbolic” membership in the EU, Kachka brushed away the idea. “The only model of accession that we pursue is a full classical, normal … accession to the European Union according to methodology,” he said. It remains realistic for Kyiv to have completed most of the steps it needs to join the EU by the end of 2027, he added.
“2027 is really good, at least for closing majority of chapters,” he said. “And of course … also to start to even draft the treaty of accession.”
Ukraine is defending itself and Europe, Zelenskyy said as he joined the EU leaders in Cyprus on Thursday.