Zelenskyy rejects partial EU membership idea, saying no one needs light version of Ukrainian military

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Kyiv is not interested in partial membership of the European Union, drawing a parallel with the idea that Europe would not want a limited version of the Ukrainian military.

Journalists asked Zelenskyy during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin about the concept of "partial" EU membership, which has been discussed within the European Union. Under the proposal, Ukraine would be able to join the EU but with significantly reduced decision-making powers.

Zelenskyy has categorically rejected the idea of partial membership in both the EU and NATO. He said Europe needs Ukraine as a strong and full partner, and added that no one needs a "light" version of the Ukrainian military.

"Everyone in Europe knows our position. We do not need an EU 'light', just as we do not need NATO 'light'. Likewise, I believe that Europe and NATO countries need Ukraine as a fully-fledged strong partner. They need our army – a strong army. Because no one needs a 'light' Ukrainian army. What kind of protection would that be?" he said.

Merz stated at the same press conference that Ukraine's accession to the EU cannot happen quickly.

European Pravda reported that the EU has not closed discussions about the possibility of Ukraine joining in 2027, although there is currently no agreed-upon outline of the process.