There are doubts within the European Union regarding the realism of Ukraine joining the EU by 2027 through an expedited process. This idea, which may be part of a proposed peace plan from the United States, was reported by the Financial Times in December 2024.
This is reported by Kyiv24
EU Diplomats’ Position on Negotiation Timelines
One EU diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that negotiations for Ukraine’s accession should be completed by 2025–2026, but even in the most favorable scenario, a year for the entire process is considered an extremely ambitious timeline. The diplomat emphasized that 35 chapters of negotiations must be completed for accession, and even the most prepared countries have taken longer to do so.
“2027? I don’t know… But in any case, negotiations must be completed by 2025–2026, and even then, one year for the entire process is extremely ambitious. Accession involves going through 35 chapters of negotiations. Even the fastest countries, which moved at exemplary speed, or those that were most prepared before applying (like Iceland), still required significant time. There are steps in the accession process that simply cannot be shortened,” said the EU diplomat to Radio Free Europe on condition of anonymity, adding that “all of this seems very complicated to me.”
Another source from diplomatic circles emphasized that the official EU documents do not mention January 1, 2027, as a possible date for Ukraine’s accession to the bloc. According to the senior official, the accession process is merit-based and progresses according to established procedures.
Discussion on Accelerated Accession for Ukraine
The Financial Times reported that the possibility of Ukraine joining the EU by January 1, 2027, is currently being considered in a draft peace proposal being discussed by official representatives from the United States, Ukraine, and the EU. According to sources, such a step would require Brussels to revise its current approach to accepting new members, as well as phased access to EU funds, voting rights, and benefits, including the Common Agricultural Policy.
Currently, Kyiv has not completed any of the stages for EU accession. Changes to the timelines and conditions for membership could significantly impact the EU’s internal politics regarding the enlargement and integration of new countries.