German Chancellor Merz Proposes Phased EU Integration for Ukraine

Following the EU summit in Cyprus, Friedrich Merz called for “intermediate steps” and closer institutional ties, while acknowledging that immediate full accession remains impossible at this stage. Make us preferred on Google Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz speaks during a press conference after taking part in an informal meeting of the European Council in Nicosia on April 24, 2026. (Photo by NICOLAS TUCAT / AFP) Content Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Flip Make us preferred on Google German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signaled a shift toward a “strategic gradual rapprochement” for Ukraine’s integration into the European Union , emphasizing that while full membership is the ultimate goal, immediate entry is not currently feasible, DW reported. Speaking in Nicosia on Friday, April 24, following an informal meeting of EU heads of state, Merz proposed a model where Ukraine could participate in European Council meetings without voting rights and gradually join specific policy areas based on reform progress. Follow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official . “It is clear to everyone that Ukraine’s immediate accession to the EU is, of course, impossible,” Merz noted, adding that his goal is to build a “bridge” to future full membership through accelerated negotiations and closer institutional cooperation. The proposal comes at a turning point in EU-Kyiv relations. During the summit in Cyprus, EU leaders formally approved a €90 billion ($105 billion) support loan to cover Ukraine’s budgetary and defense needs through 2027. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also called for the opening of negotiation clusters “without delay,” praising Ukraine’s rapid progress in aligning its legislation with European standards. However, the “gradual” approach suggested by Germany and France faces resistance in Kyiv. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated on April 22 that Ukraine would not accept any “ersatz membership” or “partial” formats. “There is a clear position – we will not accept any form of partial membership,” Sybiha emphasized, reiterating that Ukraine seeks full integration with all associated rights and obligations. Other Topics of Interest Defense Head Hegseth Weighs Punishing NATO Allies, Including Possible Spain Suspension, Report Says Internal discussions reflect growing White House frustration with allies’ limited support during Trump’s war on Iran. The diplomatic friction highlights the delicate balance the EU is attempting to strike. While the bloc has recently adopted its 20th sanctions package against Russia and unlocked significant funding, several member states remain cautious about fast-tracking membership, citing potential disruptions to the EU budget and internal balance. As President Volodymyr Zelensky calls for the swift implementation of military and economic agreements, the debate over “symbolic” versus full integration is expected to intensify in the coming months. Kyiv Post is Ukraine’s first and oldest English news organization since 1995. Its international market reach of 97% outside of Ukraine makes it truly Ukraine’s Global – and most reliable – Voice.