EU Accession Talks Begin, but Membership Not Guaranteed: Expert Identifies Key Obstacle.

Volodymyr Horbach Weighs In on Ukraine’s EU Integration Path

According to Espreso.tv: In a recent interview, Volodymyr Horbach, Executive Director of the Institute for the Transformation of Northern Eurasia, cautioned that launching formal EU membership negotiations does not ensure a successful outcome as long as hostilities persist. His remarks follow the European Union’s decision on June 15 to officially open the first cluster of accession talks for both Ukraine and Moldova.

Optimism vs. Reality on the Ground

Horbach noted that while many optimistic assessments surround this milestone, he believes

“the fanfare and cheerful progress reports do not yet match reality”

“I seriously doubt that European nations will agree to include Ukraine in their ranks until the war with Russia is over,”

The expert also pointed out that even if Ukraine can prepare for membership within the next two years, that does not ensure the talks will conclude successfully.

“That we will be ready to join in two years—of course, we could be ready. But that still guarantees nothing,”

According to Horbach, overly optimistic projections about Ukraine’s EU integration must be tempered by the realities of an ongoing conflict.

Horbach’s comments highlight the complexity and unpredictability of Ukraine’s European integration amid its protracted war with Russia. While the opening of the first negotiation cluster marks a step forward, deeper cooperation with the EU will hinge on multiple factors, including the region’s security situation and the political will of member states. Consequently, Ukraine must not only prepare for accession but also continue defending its territorial integrity and stability—efforts that will directly influence the duration and outcome of EU talks.