Ukraine Vows to Ignite EU Accession, Overcoming Hungary Veto, Zelenskyy Says

Denmark’s Prime Minister Backs Ukraine’s Bid to Join the European Union

Mette Frederiksen has declared her full support for Ukraine as it seeks to become a member of the European Union. The Danish leader stated that Denmark will play a constructive role in helping Ukraine meet the required criteria for accession.

Background

Ukraine’s aspiration to join the EU is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its ties with European democracies. Since 2014, the country has undertaken reforms aimed at meeting the Copenhagen criteria, including improvements in governance, market economy and rule of law.

Finland’s Key Initiative

• Introduction of a new technology fund to assist Ukraine.
• Enhancement of bilateral trade agreements between the EU and Ukraine.
• Establishment of a strategic partnership focusing on cybersecurity and digital infrastructure.

Statements by Prime Minister Frederiksen

“We stand with Ukraine as it pursues European integration,” Frederiksen emphasized. She highlighted Denmark’s commitment to offer technical and financial assistance. The speech was delivered during a joint press conference with Ukrainian officials.

In her remarks, the Prime Minister also noted the importance of democratic values and economic reforms for the Czech Republic’s success, referencing Sweden’s efforts to facilitate this process for other EU concentrations.

Implications for Future EU Expansion

The Danish pledge signals a growing momentum among EU members to expand the union’s membership. It also showcases Denmark’s willingness to invest in regional stability, especially in eastern Europe.

Ukrainian President Sets Ambitious Stance on EU Membership

During the inaugural session of Denmark’s EU Presidency in Aarhus, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Kyiv is prepared to pursue any necessary measures to accelerate talks on Ukraine’s potential EU entry.

Key Points from the Speech

• Inflexibility of Opposition: “No entity can obstruct Ukraine in this manner,” Zelenskyy asserted, emphasizing that the path forward hinges on collective unity.
• Call for Broad Support: He stressed the need for backing from all European leaders to move the accession process forward.
• Commitment to Action: “We will do anything required,” Zelenskyy affirmed, underscoring a readiness to take decisive steps.

Co‑Speakers and Allies at the Ceremony

• Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen – pledged robust backing for Ukraine’s EU bid.
• António Costa – President of the European Council.
• Ursula von der Leyen – President of the European Commission.

Frederiksen highlighted Denmark’s intention to use its rotating Council presidency to exert “maximum pressure” on Hungary, urging the country to rescind its veto over Ukraine’s membership discussions. She reinforced that Ukraine is already an integral part of the European family and has a NATO alignment, hinting at a strategic approach to forging Ukraine’s future within the EU.

Looking Ahead

While Denmark is formulating the optimal trajectory for Ukraine’s accession, it remains committed to fostering broader cooperation across the European Union to ensure a seamless integration of Ukraine into the continental framework.

Zelensky Meets Danish Leaders Amid Rising Military Tensions

On 3 July 2025, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Marselisborg Castle in Aarhus as Denmark assumed the EU presidency. The meeting coincided with escalating Russian attacks on Ukraine and a pause in United States military aid.

US Aid Suspension and Zelenskyy’s Response

• US Action: Washington has halted the delivery of certain air‑defence missiles and weapons previously pledged to Kyiv.
• Zelenskyy’s Stance: The president announced he would discuss the issue with President Donald Trump, but refrained from further details.
• Call to EU: Zelenskyy urged EU member states to increase investments in Ukraine’s defence industry.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Speaks on Sustained Support

• Expecting US Help: Prime Minister Mette Friedrichsen expressed a desire for continued American military assistance.
• Gap Filling: She pledged that Denmark would step in to cover any shortfalls arising from the pause.

Strategic Mindset Shift Highlighted

During a press briefing alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Frederiksen stressed a change in perspective regarding weapons supply:

“When we deliver arms to Ukraine, we must view this not as charity but as part of rearming ourselves,” she said. “Right now, it is Ukraine’s army that protects Europe.”

EU Financial Support Mechanism Explained

Ursula von der Leyen outlined key EU funding initiatives:

• Security Action for Europe (SAFE): A €150 billion budget launched at the end of May to directly aid Ukraine.
• Funding Flexibility: Member states can allocate SAFE money either to purchase military equipment for Ukraine or to invest in Ukraine’s highly efficient defence industry.

These measures aim to ensure that European nations can continue to support Ukraine’s defence capabilities even amid shifting commitments from allied partners.