Ukraine's accession to the EU cannot happen quickly — Merz
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz officially confirmed his support for Kyiv’s European integration aspirations, emphasizing the fundamental importance of this step for the stability of the entire continent.
However, the head of the German government noted that the accession process requires time and the careful fulfillment of all established criteria.
During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin, the chancellor noted that integration cannot happen overnight.
“Ukraine’s accession to the EU will be a strategically important step toward greater security and a prosperous Europe,” the German leader stated.
Merz emphasized that the path to full membership cannot be traversed “quickly and fully” without adequate preparation by both sides.
He emphasized that the European community expects Ukraine to demonstrate consistency in implementing complex but necessary democratic reforms.
During the talks, particular attention was paid to domestic reforms, specifically anti-corruption policies.
The Chancellor is convinced that the fight against corruption is not merely a requirement from Brussels, but a vital investment in the stability and prosperity of the Ukrainian state.
Friedrich Merz expressed confidence that every successfully implemented reform brings the signing of the final agreements closer.
“Every success of these reforms is a step toward Europe. And at the same time, I want to emphasize, this is also in the interests of both Europe and Ukraine,” he concluded.
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