Official: Ukraine can not wait ten years for EU membership

Ukraine has called for an accelerated path toward European Union membership, with Head of the Office of the Ukrainian President Kirill Budanov arguing that the country should not be forced to wait a decade to join the bloc amid its ongoing war with Russia.

“Regarding everything that has been said about the path to the European Union: we must join, and you must all help us. Ukraine cannot wait 10 years for this to happen,” Budanov said, speaking during a meeting of the International Advisory Group on Investment Attraction and Economic Development in Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports per Ukrainian media. 

He emphasised that Ukraine is prepared to take into account the recommendations of its international partners, while also highlighting the unprecedented circumstances the country is facing as it pursues EU integration during a full-scale war.

“But you must also not forget the realities we are currently facing. No other country has faced such challenges on its path to the European Union. And, excuse me, but we must take into account Ukraine’s unique situation in this case,” he said.

Budanov also framed Ukraine’s economic development as a long-term opportunity for the European Union, arguing that investment in the country would ultimately benefit both sides.

“And again, by developing Ukraine’s economy, you will ultimately be making a sound investment for yourselves,” he added.

By Sabina Mammadli