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Kowal on Ukraine’s prospects for joining EU in 2027

#UAtoEU
February 4,2026 63
Kowal on Ukraine’s prospects for joining EU in 2027

Ukraine’s accession to the European Union (EU) next year is unlikely, but the country should aim for it and be ready, as the pace and format of EU integration can change, UWC Executive Committee member Zenon Kowal in an interview with Tsybulko Talk.

Kowal, who also advises the European Congress of Ukrainians and the Association of Ukrainians in Belgium, commented on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s statement that Ukraine hopes to join the EU in 2027.

“It’s good that 2027 is being discussed and that the president has set this goal. Even if it’s unlikely, we should strive for it because it’s part of our commitments. If we are prepared, others may view us differently,” Kowal said.

He noted that the EU could evolve as a “two-speed” union, where one group of countries integrates more deeply and another more lightly. This could open alternative paths for Ukraine’s integration.

Kowal emphasized that the key is not just waiting for a decision from European partners, but preparing for membership internally.

“The goal should be ours, not just telling Europeans, ‘You must accept us in 2027.’ We need to be ready in 2027 so that they can accept us,” he said.

According to Kowal, a clear strategy and preparation for EU membership are more important than formal timelines, as the country’s readiness will determine the speed and success of its integration.

Cover: Shutterstock

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