Brussels (enr) – David McAllister, Chairman of the European Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee, has called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to endorse German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s proposal for Ukraine to pursue associate membership as it seeks EU integration.
McAllister emphasized that the proposal should be embraced, stating that claims regarding it being “membership light” or a form of second-class membership are misguided. The German lawmaker explained that this arrangement would facilitate Ukraine’s gradual integration into the EU, allowing its citizens to experience the advantages of the bloc more tangibly. He suggested that Ukraine could take part in the European Parliament as an observer.
Zelenskyy has voiced his opposition to the proposal, arguing that it would be unjust for Ukraine to be part of the EU without having a say in its decision-making processes. He urged EU leaders in a letter to expedite Ukraine’s full membership instead of relegating it to a waiting status.
Merz previously indicated that immediate full EU accession for Ukraine, currently engaged in conflict with Russia, is unrealistic. As an alternative, he suggested that Ukraine be allowed to attend EU summits and ministerial meetings without voting privileges during this interim phase.
His proposals also include allowing Ukraine to have an associate member in the European Commission without a portfolio or voting rights, representation in the European Parliament, and an associate judge at the European Court of Justice.
Enlargement Agenda
McAllister stated that EU enlargement is a priority for the bloc, with the Western Balkans being a focal point. He argued that a stable region is essential for peace and security.
The CDU politician advocated for a case-by-case assessment of each candidate country rather than treating the Western Balkans as a monolithic group. He highlighted Montenegro as a leading candidate, while noting that North Macedonia’s accession is hindered by a political dispute with Bulgaria.
In addition to Ukraine, eight other European nations are recognized as EU candidate countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Türkiye.
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