Ukraine’s EU Membership by 2027 Not Feasible, Says Enlargement Chief
BRUSSELS — March 24, 2026
European Union Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos has stated that Ukraine will not be able to join the EU by early 2027, highlighting the complexity of the accession process.
Timeline Faces Practical Limits
Speaking at an event hosted by Politico, Kos made it clear that a fixed deadline is unrealistic. She noted that although Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pushed for a faster timeline, the EU cannot tie membership to specific dates.
At the same time, she acknowledged Kyiv’s urgency. According to Kos, Ukraine views EU membership as a form of security assurance, especially since NATO membership remains unlikely in the near future.
Peace and Reforms Come First
Kos stressed that successful EU enlargement has always followed a clear sequence. First, countries must achieve stability and peace. Then, they need to implement strong political and economic reforms.
She also pointed out that investor confidence depends on security and profitability. Investors are more likely to commit when they feel their investments are safe and sustainable.
Need to Rethink Enlargement Strategy
However, Kos explained that the EU’s current enlargement framework was designed for peacetime conditions. Given today’s geopolitical challenges, the bloc may need to adapt its approach.
To address this, the European Commission has предложed three reform options to member states. Still, Kos emphasized that progress depends entirely on their approval. Without collective agreement, the process cannot move forward.
Gradual Integration as a Likely Path
Although maintaining the current system is not viable, Kos ruled out drastic changes. Instead, she identified “enhanced gradual integration” as the most practical solution.
Under this approach, candidate countries could slowly align with EU policies and access certain benefits before achieving full membership. This step-by-step method would allow smoother integration.
Iceland Could Advance Quickly
In contrast, Kos noted that Iceland could move rapidly toward EU membership if it resumes accession talks. Due to its existing ties through the European Economic Area and the Schengen zone, the country already meets many EU standards.
A referendum expected later this year will determine whether Iceland restarts negotiations.
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