“We’re already practically treating Ukraine as an EU member state.”
Von Seherr-Toss noted that the EU is increasing financial and military support to Ukraine, with plans to allocate around $105 billion over the next two years. Most of the funds will go toward military support, and the rest will be used to reinforce Ukraine’s economy.
She said that the EU has supported Ukraine since the start of the full-scale war and will not change course. She went on to explain that the EU’s backing has two main goals: ensure Ukraine’s victory and develop a long-term partnership that benefits both sides.
Von Seherr-Toss emphasized that only Ukraine can determine the type of assistance it needs, both in terms of procurement and timing. One key area of cooperation will include more active involvement of the Ukrainian defense sector, seeing as “Ukrainians are innovators and leaders in many important segments.”
She also noted that cooperation with European manufacturers will be stronger in the future, notably through the creation of joint ventures and partnerships between companies.
“Even after the war ends, these threats will not go away,” the EEAS representative pointed out.
“We must build a partnership that guarantees security both today and in the future.”
According to her, the European Union is also planning to invest in manufacturing in Ukraine and EU countries to strengthen defense capabilities. She stressed that support for Ukraine is support for all of Europe’s security.
“Ukraine is a key partner today and a future member of the European Union.”
On March 24, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said it is impossible for Ukraine to join the European Union by 2027.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy earlier stated that Ukraine is aiming for EU membership in 2027.
Any country seeking to join the EU must first meet the Copenhagen criteria, a process that typically takes several years, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said.
He emphasized that Ukraine should be given a clear long-term path toward EU membership. According to Merz, Ukraine's accession to the EU in January 2027 is unrealistic.