Friedrich Merz proposes special status for Ukraine within the EU: what the German ambassador had to say
The German Ambassador to Ukraine, Heiko Tomes, explained that, in Berlin’s view, Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s proposal for Ukraine to be granted special status prior to EU accession is intended to accelerate integration, not to replace full membership.
The diplomat stated that criticism of this proposal is partly due to a misperception of the intentions behind it as set out by the Chancellor.
“I want to make this very clear: the proposal Germany has made to Ukraine is the most concrete proposal regarding the format of integration that has ever been on the negotiating table in the EU. And this is probably the best proposal that will be discussed in the near future regarding Ukraine,” said Toms.
Not “second-class membership”
The ambassador emphasised that Berlin is keen for Ukraine to join the European Union as soon as possible.
According to him, Merz’s proposal is not intended to turn Ukraine into a “semi-member” of the EU and is not an interim status that could become permanent.
“This is not second-class membership. It is not an interim status that will later become permanent. Instead, it is an additional proposal designed for Ukraine on its path to full EU membership,” said Toms.
He also explained that this involves expanding Ukraine’s opportunities within the standard path to the EU.
What benefits could Ukraine gain?
According to the ambassador, Ukraine could receive certain benefits of membership even before formal accession.
Toms stated that Kyiv could be represented in the College of European Commissioners, have MEPs in the European Parliament, the right to participate in the European Council, and an observer judge at the European Court of Justice.
He also said that Ukraine could gradually benefit from the application of the acquis communautaire – EU law.
“In short, we are offering Ukraine full EU membership, as Zelenskyy wishes, plus a few ‘extras’ on top,” the ambassador explained.
Could the special status be implemented quickly?
Gaiko Toms stated that special status could come into effect immediately once the idea has been agreed by all EU member states.
At the same time, he emphasised that this would require the support of the Ukrainian government.
The ambassador acknowledged that the consent of all EU countries is not automatically guaranteed.
“It is not a foregone conclusion that all EU member states will definitely agree to this German proposal. No, we, Germany and Ukraine, still need to work together on its approval. Germany feels a duty to do this,” noted Toms.
The name may be changed
The diplomat also stated that Germany is prepared to change the original name of the proposal – “associated membership”.
According to him, Berlin may opt for a different formulation if the current name attracts criticism or is misinterpreted.
In fact, Germany is attempting to present this model as an additional tool for Ukraine’s integration into the EU, rather than as an alternative to full membership.
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