Zelenskyy Urges EU Parliament to Set a Definitive Date for Ukraine's Membership.

Ukrainian President's Address to the European Parliament

According to Novyny.live: On February 24, 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the European Parliament, marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In his speech, he stressed the critical importance of Ukraine receiving a clear timeline for joining the European Union. Zelenskyy warned that without a concrete date, Russia could find ways to obstruct Ukraine's development for decades, driving a wedge between the nation and Europe.

'This is not merely a desire; it is a clear understanding of how Putin will act. If there is no date, if there is no such guarantee, he will find a way to block Ukraine for decades, dividing you, dividing Europe. We must protect ourselves from this.' - Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Ukrainian Officials' Views on European Integration

Andrii Sybiha, Head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, stated that the consideration of Ukraine's EU accession is one of the key security guarantees for the state. Separately, Danylo Hetmantsev, Chairman of the Financial Committee of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, mentioned the possibility of Ukraine obtaining partial membership in the EU.

However, it is important to note that the European Union currently lacks absolute consensus on the timeline for Ukraine's accession. The situation is complicated by Hungary's blocking of decisions that could accelerate Ukraine's European integration.

Zelenskyy's appeal to the European Parliament underscores the critical nature of Ukraine's European integration amidst the severe security challenges the country faces. The clear stance of Ukrainian leadership on EU accession timelines reflects not only internal aspirations but also the external threats stemming from Russian aggression. Support from Western partners and progress in integration processes are likely to be decisive factors for Ukraine's future, given the ongoing instability in the region. The EU's enlargement process is complex, often taking years of negotiation and reform before a candidate country is ready to join.