Ukraine Wants to Join the E.U. to Secure Peace. Here’s What to Know.

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by Jeanna Smialek

February 25, 2026

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Ukraine’s pursuit of European Union (E.U.) membership has emerged as a critical step toward securing peace and stability in the region. However, while there is agreement among negotiators that joining the bloc could be pivotal for Kyiv’s future, significant challenges lie ahead. These obstacles include political, economic, and social reforms that Ukraine must undertake to meet E.U. standards, as well as potential compromises that could reshape how the union operates. The idea of EU membership for Ukraine gained momentum following Russia’s invasion, with many seeing it as a pathway to long-term security guarantees. While the E.U. has historically focused on enlarging its membership to include neighboring countries, the process is slow and requires extensive reforms. Ukraine’s situation is further complicated by Russia’s opposition to its neighbor joining the bloc, which could complicate diplomatic efforts. Historically, the EU’s enlargement policy has been a tool for fostering stability and integration across Europe. However, Ukraine’s case is unique due to its size, location, and ongoing conflict with Russia. Some experts argue that integrating Ukraine into the

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/25/2026