Ukraine Rejects ‘Partial’ EU Membership Options, Foreign Minister Says

Ukraine will not accept any form of “partial” or interim membership in the European Union, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said on Wednesday, April 22.

Speaking to journalists, Sybiha reiterated President Volodymyr Zelensky’s position that Ukraine is seeking full EU membership rather than alternative formats.

“There is a clear position – we will not accept any ‘ersatz membership,’” Sybiha said, according to RBC-Ukraine.

His comments come amid ongoing discussions among EU member states about potential phased or “associate” models of integration for Ukraine.

Sybiha said Ukraine’s partners understand Kyiv’s position and acknowledged the country’s progress in aligning its legislation with EU standards.

“Whether we are ready or not is a rhetorical question. There are clear criteria, and we are fulfilling them – and doing so very quickly,” he said.

At the same time, the minister noted that Ukraine’s path to EU membership remains complex and ongoing, requiring further legislative and structural reforms.

He added that Kyiv may seek to protect certain sectors of its economy during the accession process, including through temporary measures, while continuing to adopt European standards.

On Monday Financial Times reported, that France and Germany are proposing a “symbolic” form of European Union integration for Ukraine that would grant limited benefits before full membership.

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