Ukraine’s EU membership at risk without democratic reforms – MP Kniazhytskyi

Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration and Minister of Justice Olha Stefanishyna recently stated that Ukraine will become an EU member in 2030, claiming that the decision has been "practically made." However, Kniazhytskyi cautions that while the EU leadership supports Ukraine’s membership bid, the process is not automatic.

“The EU and its current leadership are interested in and will facilitate Ukraine’s accession, but a waltz takes two to dance,” Kniazhytskyi emphasized in his social media post. 

He warned that restrictions on freedom of speech, political persecution of opposition leaders, and the unlawful seizure of property through sanctions could jeopardize Ukraine’s EU aspirations.

According to Kniazhytskyi, EU nations will not support Ukraine's accession unless it upholds democratic principles and the rule of law. He also referenced allegations made by MP Yaroslav Zhelezniak regarding billions in state funds being directed to pro-government media, calling it a "verdict for European integration."

“I speak with EU politicians and diplomats. They say this directly. Yes, they will support the Armed Forces of Ukraine and our country at war, but there will be no EU membership unless we adhere to democratic values and the rule of law,” Kniazhytskyi concluded.