Russia: "We cannot accept Ukraine's EU membership"... Changes stance to oppose only NATO membership

"EU Leads in Weapon Support for Ukraine"

Dmitry Polyansky, First Deputy Permanent Representative of the Russian Mission to the United Nations. / Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Na Ye-eun] Russia has expressed opposition not only to Ukraine's accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) but also to its accession to the European Union (EU).

Previously, Russia had taken the stance that Ukraine's NATO membership was absolutely unacceptable, but EU membership could be tolerated; however, this position has now changed.

According to RIA Novosti, Dmitry Polyansky, First Deputy Permanent Representative of Russia to the United Nations, stated in an interview with a British online media outlet on the 12th (local time) that Russia's position on Ukraine's EU membership has shifted.

He emphasized, "At the time of the negotiations in Istanbul, Turkey, at the end of March, we were not greatly concerned about the EU. But the situation changed after Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said that 'this war (with Russia) must end with a victory on the battlefield.'"

He continued, "Now Russia's position regarding Ukraine's EU membership has become more similar to its stance on NATO membership," adding, "The EU has become the leader in providing weapons support to Ukraine, so there is little difference between the EU and NATO."

Deputy Representative Polyansky commented on the prospects for a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, saying, "Honestly, given Ukraine's position and the attempts by Western countries to escalate the conflict, there seems to be no possibility of a diplomatic solution at this stage."

It is known that during the fifth round of peace talks with Ukraine held in Istanbul, Turkey, on March 29, Russia demanded Ukraine's abandonment of NATO membership as a key condition, while indicating that EU membership could be allowed.

Meanwhile, on the 12th (local time), following Finland's official decision to join NATO due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine after 73 years of neutrality, Sweden is also expected to apply for NATO membership soon. In response, Russia warned, "Russia will have no choice but to take military retaliatory measures along with other retaliatory actions."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.