Merz proposes staged EU link for Ukraine, drawing cautious Brussels reaction

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz floated an 'associate EU membership' for Ukraine—granting limited participation in EU decision-making and access to funds on a step-by-step path to full membership. The idea drew mixed reactions in Brussels: the European Commission welcomed the ambition but stressed any path must be merit-based and legally feasible, while several diplomats questioned the legality and timing amid Hungary's veto and upcoming June negotiations.