Brussels: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos expressed doubts on Tuesday about Ukraine's potential to join the European Union by early 2027. Speaking at an event organized by Politico, Kos stated, "I think everybody in this room knows that it is impossible that Ukraine will become a member of the EU on Jan. 1, 2027."

According to Anadolu Agency, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been advocating for an expedited membership timeline. However, Kos highlighted that the EU membership process is not suited to fixed deadlines. She acknowledged Zelenskyy's push for a specific date, noting his focus on security guarantees due to Ukraine's current inability to join NATO.

Kos elaborated on the necessary conditions for EU enlargement, emphasizing the importance of achieving peace and implementing reforms first. She remarked, "Investors will only come, also you know in Ukraine, if they will be first able to earn the money and if their investments will be safe."

The commissioner pointed out that the existing EU enlargement methodology was crafted for "peacetime conditions," suggesting that adaptations might be necessary to address current geopolitical challenges. The European Commission has put forward three reform options for the enlargement process, but any changes require member states' approval. "Without the decision of the member states, we cannot move on," Kos stated.

Kos dismissed the idea of radical changes but mentioned "enhanced gradual integration" as a plausible approach. This would allow candidate countries to gradually align with specific EU policies and enjoy certain benefits before attaining full membership.

She also noted Iceland's situation, suggesting that if the country resumes accession talks, its EU membership process could progress rapidly, given its existing ties through the European Economic Area and Schengen. A referendum later this year will decide if negotiations with Iceland will resume.