The European Union has declared support for Ukraine’s accession, yet the process is facing obstacles from both the EU and Ukraine itself. This is especially significant amid Russian aggression and security concerns posed by China. Ukraine’s potential EU accession is strategically important for economic growth, security, and commitment to shared values.
The main hurdle comes from Hungary and Slovakia, who are slowing the process, exploiting the veto mechanism. In response, the EU is discussing two main proposals:
- Austria and Sweden have suggested allowing Ukraine, Moldova, and Montenegro to join the EU without veto rights over political decisions. Full veto rights would be granted after institutional reforms within the EU.
- European Council President António Costa proposes to change the rules: opening negotiation clusters would require a qualified majority, while closing them would still need unanimity. The goal is to circumvent Hungary’s veto.
The EU decision-making mechanism relies on qualified majority and unanimity — with unanimity required for major decisions like enlargement. Hungary has used its veto to block Ukraine’s progress, citing energy, agriculture, minority rights and corruption concerns.
Several countries, including Slovakia, have raised further concerns regarding market effects and Ukraine receiving substantial financial assistance from the EU budget.
The compromise under consideration allows new members to join the EU with temporarily limited veto rights. Ukraine would gain full access to the single market, free movement, and EU funds, while only about 10% of decisions (foreign policy, defense, tax harmonization) would remain outside its veto power. Similar restrictions have been applied to Eastern European countries in the past, such as during the 2004 enlargement.
Experts highlight the benefits of EU membership for Ukraine: increased trade, access to EU funds, recognition of diplomas, and free movement. The temporary limitations would apply mainly to critical political and institutional areas.
Limited-veto membership for Ukraine appears realistic but would require significant effort and political will from all 27 EU countries.
