German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s Proposal for a Special Path for Ukraine to the European Union
Germany’s ambassador to Ukraine, Heiko Thoms, has clarified the proposal put forward by Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding a distinct route for Ukraine into the EU. According to Thoms, the plan involves full-fledged membership paired with additional pre-accession advantages, rather than any intermediate status—a unique arrangement designed exclusively for Ukraine, not applicable to other candidate countries. The proposal includes Ukraine’s participation in key European institutions even before formal accession.
The proposed pre-accession elements include:
- a Ukrainian representative on the College of European Commissioners;
- seats for Ukrainian delegates in the European Parliament;
- the right to take part in the European Council;
- an observer judge in the European Court of Justice.
Thoms emphasized that Berlin is not insisting on the term 'associate membership,' which has drawn criticism.
“If someone suggests a better name—we’re all for it,”he stated. In the ambassador’s view, this is 'the most concrete proposal regarding the integration format that has ever been on the negotiating table in the EU.'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted critically to the initiative, calling it 'half-membership.' However, Thoms said he would stand by Zelenskyy’s words, stressing that there is no 'discount membership' when joining the EU, and that membership will depend on Ukraine’s own reforms, not on the actions of its neighbors.
The ambassador also addressed the pace of opening negotiation clusters, noting that the first cluster could be opened in 'weeks, if not days.' He referenced the June EU summit, where issues related to Ukraine’s path to the European Union may be discussed. Nonetheless, approval of this proposal by all 27 EU member states is not guaranteed.
This initiative from Germany’s chancellor could mark a significant milestone in Ukraine-EU relations, unlocking new avenues for the country’s integration into European structures. At the same time, President Zelenskyy’s critical response highlights that the membership question remains sensitive and complex, underscoring the need for reforms in Ukraine to demonstrate its readiness for accession. The discussions at the June summit may prove decisive in shaping the EU’s future strategy toward Ukraine.
In light of Chancellor Merz's recent proposal, it's important to examine the broader implications of the suggested associate membership model for Ukraine. This alternative pathway may reshape the EU's approach to candidate countries and set a precedent for unique arrangements in the future. Understanding these nuances can provide valuable context as discussions around Ukraine's EU aspirations continue to evolve.