Brussels is working on proposals that deviate from the current EU accession system. This system has been in place since the early 1990s, involving a lengthy negotiation process covering all components. The new approach would profoundly change the route to membership and is still in preparation.
Central is now a two-step model for accession. Ukraine could become a formal member earlier, but would not immediately participate fully. Only at a later stage would the country receive the same rights as other member states.
In the first phase, Ukraine would have limited voting and decision-making power. The proposals are linked to a broader security and peace logic. EU accession is mentioned as one element that could play a role in a future peace agreement surrounding the war.
Although the plans are still preliminary, they are already causing unrest. EU capitals express concerns about the possible consequences for the functioning and cohesion of the union.
An important point of concern is the emergence of different types of membership. Member states and other candidate countries fear that a two-tier system would put pressure on the existing accession principle.
Some plans mention a year around 2027 for Ukraine's EU accession. At the same time, it is emphasized that the regular accession process normally requires much more time.
Access to the internal market, according to these proposals, would not happen all at once. Ukraine would be allowed to participate gradually, with further steps dependent on meeting agreed conditions.
Financial aspects are also described as phased. Access to agricultural subsidies and development funds would not automatically be full, but would be expanded step-by-step after reaching established milestones.