The question of Ukrainian ascension to the European Union is a dynamic, and ever-changing topic. However, these complexities are often met with skepticism, restriction, and reservations. The recency and relevancy of the Russo-Ukrainian war makes this topic more critical to discuss.

Daniel Fried, Former US Ambassador to Poland and Distinguished Fellow of the Atlantic Council, takes an American perspective on the matter, citing it is predominantly an EU decision and the least intelligent option would be to permit Ukraine to join unconditionally as ascension is complex. It is argued Ukraine joining the EU is a necessity for peace in Europe, referencing the post-Second World War attitude of such a narrative. This peace coincides with a stated need for Ukraine to get out of what Fried calls “the gray zone”, stating they are somewhat favored to join the EU but not fully, politically this is a difficult position to occupy.

Kira Rudik, Vice President, ALDE & Member of Parliament, Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, is asked about the preparedness of Ukraine to ascend to the European Union alongside being questioned regarding Ukrainian perspectives on the realistic chances of Ukraine joining the EU. Citing the widespread presence of EU flags on the uniforms and backpacks of soldiers and in public parks, Ukrainians in urban areas are fervent in their desires to ascend to the European Union, while those in rural areas are less convinced.

Miroslav Wlachovský, who has served as the Former Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia & Distinguished Fellow, and represents GLOBSEC, is asked whether it is a serious offer for Ukraine to join the European Union due to the empathy involved in recent conversations. The Czech government is one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine and critics of Russia, meanwhile it is skeptical of enlargement of the European Union simultaneously. Budget, security, and the question of what if Ukraine doesn’t win the war with Russia are important to consider.

According to Daniel Fried, “The process of bringing Ukraine into the EU is difficult, but doesn’t it seem like a better set of problems to have than an actual war”? Further arguing that Ukraine cannot be stuck in the aforementioned “gray zone”. Miroslav Wlachovský addresses the same topic, stating, “This is a good question to have”, referring to the reluctance across Europe regarding enlargement. He further cites the potential positive aspects, i.e. increasing the internal market in terms of population and budget, confronting labor market problems, increasing the population by 15%, and increasing the gross national income by only 2.5%.

Kira Rudik discusses the Ukrainian economy and how its relative success has been a shock to many onlookers, citing the altering influence of oligarchs, media, and landscapes of the war. “The majority of the Ukrainian economy is sponsored from external sources” and the prospect of losing the war is a reality which is not frequently addressed, argues Rudik. In reference to the agricultural sector, Ukraine is ready to meet the defined requirements for the agricultural sector but is waiting on those from the European Union for ascension purposes.

The War between Russia and Ukraine has brought widespread attention to Ukraine specifically in the West and in terms of expanding the European Union. Miroslav Wlachovský argues the EU has been enlarged by Ukrainians but not yet by Ukraine. “Over time societies can transform themselves” argues Dan Fried, stating that if the Poles could do it in their post-Soviet transformation, the Ukranians are capable of achieving the same.