Merz defended his proposal for Ukraine’s associate membership in the EU in the Bundestag — Die Welt
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called for the introduction of "associated membership" status in the EU for Ukraine, which would provide specific benefits in recognition of progress toward full membership.
This initiative aims to support Kyiv’s European integration aspirations even before all mandatory reform requirements are met.
The German chancellor made the announcement during his official address to members of the Bundestag.
The German leader first unveiled the proposal for an alternative interim status last month, which sparked a wave of critical reactions and discussions in Kyiv’s political circles.
Speaking in the German parliament, Merz emphasized that his proposal would allow Ukraine to be represented in key EU institutions—the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the European Council—albeit without voting rights.
This approach would help involve Ukrainian representatives in European political processes at a much earlier stage.
The German chancellor described in detail the potential diplomatic advantages for Ukraine within the European bloc’s governing bodies.
“A Ukrainian commissioner, even without a portfolio or voting rights, would be the face of Kyiv in Brussels,” said Merz.
At the same time, the German chancellor emphasized that full membership in the European Union strictly depends on the complete and uncompromising fulfillment of all the Copenhagen accession criteria.
This was reported by Die Welt.
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