European capitals push back as Ukraine seeks fast-track EU membership
Ukraine’s push for a fast track into the European Union as part of any peace deal has hit stiff resistance from EU governments, who do not want to open the Pandora’s box of problems that they fear a quick accession would unleash.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wants a 2027 date to join the EU as part of a settlement to end Russia's war, hoping this would anchor his country in Europe’s main political club and offer a path to greater prosperity, security and stability.A clear route into the EU could be vital for Zelenskyy in selling any peace settlement to Ukrainians, particularly if — as is widely expected — Ukraine does not regain control of all of its territory or join the NATO military alliance, analysts say.
