Zelenskyy: Ukraine and Belarus Should Join the European Union

KYIV, UKRAINE (NPA): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that it would be in the best interest of both Ukraine and Belarus to become members of the European Union. Speaking in an interview with Belarusian independent outlet Dzerkalo, Zelenskyy acknowledged uncertainty over whether Belarusians support the idea, but argued that EU membership would benefit both countries economically, geopolitically, and in terms of independence.

He urged Belarusians to look beyond years of anti-European propaganda, dismissing fears that EU integration would lead to higher prices, lower wages, or economic decline. Zelenskyy emphasized that the decision would ultimately rest with the Belarusian people, but stressed that peaceful relations, mutual respect for sovereignty, and an end to cross-border hostilities were essential. “The best thing that can be is peaceful relations, when we respect each other’s sovereignty and missiles do not fly from one country to another,” he said, adding that Belarus did not start the war against Ukraine.

Ukraine’s potential accession to the EU carries significant consequences. For Kyiv, membership would open access to the single market, attract investment, and accelerate reforms in governance and rule of law. Politically, it would anchor Ukraine firmly within the Western bloc, reducing Russian influence. For the EU, enlargement eastward would expand its population and territory but also require major financial commitments for reconstruction and agricultural support. Security challenges, migration pressures, and budgetary strains would intensify, though Ukraine’s membership could strengthen the EU’s global standing if managed with unity and balance.