Manfred Weber, the head of the EVP, supports the proposal made by Federal leader Friedrich Merz (CDU), suggesting that Ukraine be granted a special EU status as an associated member. Speaking to the newspapers of the Funke media group, the CSU politician described the idea as a creative and sound proposal. He stressed that it is essential to emphasize that Ukrainians should have the prospect of becoming EU members.
Weber views Ukraine as a genuine security gain for Europe, arguing that with its experienced army and defense technology, the continent’s eastern flank can be permanently secured together-a massive advantage for the Union. Merz had previously put forward an idea of a temporary partial membership for Ukraine aimed at accelerating its integration with the EU. Under this model, Ukraine would participate in EU Council meetings and be able to send a representative to the Brussels Commission, but without a voting right.
Regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, Weber stated that diplomacy is reaching its limits. He believes peace can only be achieved through strength and European unity. Europe must prepare for all eventualities, including conducting negotiations independently. However, he does not see the current timing or the will in Moscow to pursue this. Without that willingness, all other efforts are irrelevant.
When asked about potential mediators, Weber mentioned that there are many capable figures in Europe. He explicitly dismissed former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, who has been mentioned by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Weber asserted that Schröder could function as “Putin’s press spokesman” but he could never be a “sincere broker”-a possibility he deemed completely excluded.
