‘Work to be done’: EU says it’s not ready to give Ukraine a membership date
South China Morning Post
by ReutersFebruary 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The European Union (EU) has indicated it remains unprepared to set a specific date for Ukraine’s membership despite President Volodymyr Zelensky’s call for one as part of a security guarantee package with Russia. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized at the Munich Security Conference that while progress is being made, significant work remains to align Ukraine with EU standards and procedures. This cautious approach reflects differing views among EU member states, many of whom believe setting a fixed date—such as 2027—is unrealistic due to the demanding nature of the accession process.
Ukraine’s application to join the EU came shortly after Russia’s invasion in February 2022, driven by its desire for closer ties with the West. A plan proposed by the United States and the EU included Ukrainian membership as a key element to ensure economic stability post-conflict. However, this timeline has faced skepticism from many EU governments, who stress that accession is a merit-based process requiring substantial legal and institutional reforms.
The delay in setting a concrete membership date underscores the complexities of Ukraine’s integration into the EU. While there is broad support for Ukraine’s eventual accession, the process is expected to take years, contingent on the country meeting stringent EU criteria. This cautious stance highlights the delicate balance between addressing Zelensky’s security concerns and managing the practical challenges of EU enlargement.
Ultimately, the EU’s reluctance to commit to a membership date reflects its broader strategic considerations, including maintaining unity among member states and ensuring that Ukraine’s accession aligns with the bloc’s long-term interests. As the war in Ukraine continues, the timing and terms of potential membership will remain critical factors in the region’s stability and security.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/15/2026