Ukraine will eventually become part of the European Union, says Merz
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine can only be achieved through negotiations involving Ukraine, Russia, the United States, and Europe.
According to the head of the German government, Berlin will continue to support Ukraine for as long as necessary, since this is not only a matter of Kyiv’s security, but also that of all of Europe.
“Our goal for Ukraine remains a just and lasting peace that also takes our security interests into account. For this reason, we support Ukraine. That is the truth. We are doing this today and will continue to do so tomorrow, for as long as necessary,” Merz emphasized.
At the same time, the chancellor stressed that a diplomatic resolution of the conflict must involve all key parties.
“To counter Russia’s open readiness to escalate, we are strengthening NATO’s eastern flank. At the same time, we support efforts aimed at ending this aggressive war by Russia through negotiations. Lasting peace will only be achieved through negotiations involving Ukraine, Russia, the U.S., and Europe. There will be no other option,” he stated.
Merz emphasized that Ukrainians today are fighting not only for their own country but also for the freedom of European nations.
“By waging a defensive war against Russia, Ukraine is also defending our freedom, as well as freedom and security throughout Europe,” the chancellor noted.
He also emphasized that Ukraine is part of Europe and should become a member of the European Union in the future.
Assessing Ukraine’s progress toward European integration, the chancellor noted that the country is demonstrating tangible results in implementing reforms.
In this regard, he recalled his proposal regarding Ukraine’s associate membership in the EU.
“That is why, a few days ago, I proposed granting Ukraine associate membership in the EU. This would mean Ukraine’s regular participation in EU Council meetings and meetings of the relevant ministerial councils. A Ukrainian commissioner, for now without a portfolio or voting rights, would become Kyiv’s representative in Brussels,” Merz explained.
The chancellor also reiterated the European Union’s support for Ukraine, specifically the approval of €90 billion in financial aid and the further intensification of sanctions pressure on Russia.
According to him, support for Ukraine remains one of the key priorities of German foreign policy and Europe’s security strategy.
He said this during a speech in the Bundestag, according to Deutsche Welle.
Poland supports Ukraine’s European integration course and does not impose any additional conditions or reservations regarding this process.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos stated that she would be “the happiest person in the world” if Ukraine were able to sign an accession agreement with the European Union during her term. At the same time, she emphasized that no specific dates have been set in Brussels yet, as the process depends not only on Ukraine but also on all EU member states.
