Ukraine expects the European Union (EU) to make concrete decisions on the country’s future membership. Kyiv believes that delaying the process creates additional risks in the context of war and pressure from Russia, the Financial Times reports.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stressed that Kyiv expects a clear answer from the EU on the country’s membership in the bloc. He noted that he wants a specific date and asks the EU not to put off this decision any longer so that future leaders and the next generation of Ukrainians do not find themselves in a situation where Russia will block Ukraine’s EU membership for decades.

From the Ukrainian side’s point of view, the delay in EU integration creates long-term risks for the country. According to the president, the Russian leadership is trying to use various political maneuvers, including interaction with international leaders, to weaken Kyiv’s position in the negotiations.

The Ukrainian president's statements reflect the country's strategic desire to strengthen its position in European organizations and reduce the influence of external pressure on national policy. A specific date for EU membership is seen as a key element of Ukraine's long-term security and stability, the Financial Times adds.