Lithuanian FM optimistic about Ukraine's EU membership by 2030

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has voiced strong optimism regarding Ukraine's potential accession to the EU, stating that it is "entirely achievable" and expressing confidence that Kyiv could join the political union by 2030.

Budrys highlighted that the goal of Ukraine’s EU membership is not just a distant aspiration but a tangible objective. He referred to a specific timeline mentioned by Lithuania’s president, emphasising the possibility of Ukraine becoming a full EU member by January 1, 2030, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

"We believe this is entirely achievable. The specific date mentioned by my president is not just an idea. We believe that we can make it happen so that Ukraine becomes a member of the EU by January 1, 2030," said Budrys.

However, the minister acknowledged that Ukraine would face a substantial amount of work ahead to meet the necessary criteria for membership. In February, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen suggested that Ukraine could join the European Union by 2030. 

She described the proposal by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda as a very noble initiative, noting that it reflects significant political will and remarkable support. At the same time, von der Leyen emphasised that the EU accession process always takes into account the progress and achievements made by the candidate country.

By Naila Huseynova