The EU has previously raised concerns about anti-corruption efforts in Ukraine, and some Ukrainian lawmakers have opposed the changes demanded by Brussels. Kachka said these objections are a normal part of the democratic process, but the amendment of the law is ongoing.
Despite the hope, the process will still be challenging. Capitals have already pushed back at the idea that the new countries could be shaken up for geographic reasons, amid concerns that future governments could backslide on democracy and the rule of law, sparking another crisis as seen in Hungary. However, a broader discussion about reforming the process or admitting new members without full rights has yet to be pursued.
“With the current Hungarian government it is possible to continue the 90 billion Euro loan, and with the new government, we will continue the accession process,” Kos said on Wednesday.
Responding to reports that France and Germany want to grant Ukraine “model” membership in the EU, Kachka dismissed the idea. “The only accession model that we follow is the traditional, traditional one … to join the European Union according to the method,” 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 very good, at least for closing a lot of chapters,” he said. “And of course… also start to even prepare the coronation contract.”
Ukraine is defending itself and Europe, Zelenskyy said as he joined EU leaders in Cyprus on Thursday.
