EU membership for Ukraine amid war raises questions about territorial integrity, referencing Cyprus as a complex precedent.
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As Russia approaches its fourth year of full-scale war against Ukraine, proposals for an end to the conflict are increasing; while the European Union seeks models for a just and lasting peace, some US suggestions include ceding Donbas to Russia or legally recognizing Crimea. The White House peace plan has reignited debates over Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Beyond the battlefield, a political and institutional front is emerging through treaties and long-term commitments, with joining the EU potentially serving as a key security guarantee for any future settlement.
The text examines whether Ukraine can join the EU while parts of its territory remain occupied, drawing parallels to Cyprus. Cyprus joined the EU in 2004 despite not controlling the northern part of the island, demonstrating that membership is possible even with territorial disputes, though this presents numerous legal and political complexities for both Brussels and Kyiv.
The EU is preparing to begin negotiations for Ukraine’s accession, but as a war-torn candidate nation, Ukraine raises unprecedented questions about how a fighting country can join the bloc, especially since membership could become a crucial security guarantee in future talks with Russia. The occupied territories of Crimea and Donbas complicate this process for the EU.
The Cyprus example shows that entry is possible despite territorial issues, but it is unique; unlike Turkey’s frozen status, Ukraine faces an existential threat from Russia. Experts suggest that while the Ukrainian path to the EU is unique, the Cypriot precedent indicates a state can join without full territorial control. However, experts caution against viewing this as a simple solution for Ukraine due to the nature of the conflict and Russian opposition.
Regarding security guarantees, some argue the EU should provide military aid, technology, and financial support for reconstruction. Yet, current EU treaties do not mandate mutual defense in case of military aggression, suggesting that membership primarily facilitates military cooperation, intelligence sharing, and technological development rather than automatic collective defense. Some believe the primary role of joining the EU is to economically strengthen Ukraine, thereby bolstering its defense capabilities.
Despite Ukraine being a candidate for over three years, accession negotiations are stalled partly due to opposition from Hungary. However, European Commission officials maintain that the war itself will not block the entry process, noting that while territorial integrity is a core principle in international law, it has not been presented as a prerequisite for membership for other candidates like Moldova or Georgia. Ukrainian society overwhelmingly supports EU integration and rejects any territorial concessions.
