Former European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said he did not believe in the imminent accession of Ukraine to the European Union, and warned against “unrealistic hopes” for this.
Speaking on the Luxemburger Wort podcast, Juncker noted that Kiev needs the prospect of joining the bloc, but the former head of the EC is “very upset by the imprudence of many politicians, including Western ones, who promise Ukraine a quick accession.” According to him, it is impossible “just like that” and “for some political reasons” to admit to the European Union a country where hostilities have been going on for more than a year, because of which it “cannot fully reveal its will to reform.”
Nevertheless, Juncker expressed confidence that in the long term Ukraine will join the EU.
Asked about the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Juncker said he was “concerned about Moscow’s actions” but “used to always seek dialogue with her.” He added that he still believes that the EU countries should maintain contacts with Russia and “send signals of readiness for negotiations.” At the same time, Juncker noted, “a dictated peace” in Ukraine is “unacceptable.”
Jean-Claude Juncker led the European Commission from 2014 to 2019.
Source: Rosbalt
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