German chancellor Friedrich Merz has proposed granting Ukraine a new form of integration into the European Union as an interim step toward full membership, arguing the move could support ongoing efforts to end the war with Russia.
In a letter to EU leaders, Merz suggested creating an “associate member” status that would allow Ukrainian representatives to take part in EU summits and ministerial meetings, though without voting rights. The proposal aims to bridge the gap between Ukraine’s current candidate status and the lengthy process required for full accession.
“My proposal reflects Ukraine’s particular situation, a country at war. It will help facilitate the ongoing peace talks as part of a negotiated peace solution,” Merz wrote, adding that such a step would be “essential not only for Ukraine’s but for the entire continent’s security.”
Under the plan, Ukraine could also appoint a non-voting representative to the European Commission and send delegates to the European Parliament. Merz further suggested extending the EU’s mutual assistance clause to Ukraine as a form of political security guarantee.
The European Commission confirmed it had received the proposal and encouraged discussion among member states at the level of the European Council. A spokesperson said the debate highlights a growing recognition that enlargement is a “geostrategic investment in our prosperity, peace and security.”
However, the idea has already drawn mixed reactions. Slovak prime minister Robert Fico criticised the proposal, saying EU membership must follow established procedures without exceptions.
“Either we accept someone or we don’t,” Fico told reporters at a press conference. Candidates have to meet a series of conditions to enter the bloc, Fico said, suggesting that Albania, Montenegro, and Serbia were further along, and no exception should be made for Ukraine.
An Association Agreement is a common EU legal framework used to build close political and trade ties with partner countries, often as a step toward future membership or deeper long-term cooperation.
