Ukraine will not accept any substitute options for EU and NATO membership – Zelenskyy
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine insists on full integration into the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization without any simplified options.
He made this statement during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The head of state emphasized that the country does not need “EU Light” or “NATO Light” formats, as they would not provide adequate protection.
According to the president, Europe and NATO countries need Ukraine precisely as a full-fledged and strong partner with a powerful army. He noted that weakened membership formats are unacceptable, as a weak army cannot guarantee security. Zelenskyy stressed that this position is a matter of mutual interest, as a strong Ukraine strengthens the entire European and Euro-Atlantic space.
Germany and Friedrich Merz personally support Ukraine’s aspiration for full membership in both structures. Full integration remains a key priority of the state’s foreign policy against the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing aggression. Ukraine continues to implement the necessary reforms to meet all standards and requirements, which will allow it to avoid any interim or limited statuses in the future.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin on April 14.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz officially confirmed support for Kyiv’s European integration aspirations, emphasizing the fundamental importance of this step for the stability of the entire continent.
