On April 1, 2025, the European Union (EU), together with Denmark, Lithuania and Sweden, launched its flagship initiative supporting Ukraine’s preparation for EU membership. The programme will provide strategic and expert support to Ukrainian authorities leading the EU accession process. The programme is implemented by Lithuania’s Central Project Management Agency (CPVA).
“Lithuania has always been a staunch supporter of Ukraine’s EU integration. We will continue assisting Ukraine on its path towards the EU, building a stronger and more resilient country. Ukraine’s EU membership is crucial for the security and stability of Europe. Our goal – Ukraine in the EU by 2030,” said Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys.
To reach this goal, reforms and careful preparation for EU accession are essential. “Despite enduring Russia’s brutal aggression daily, Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable determination and significant progress in implementing reforms. We fully support this resolute forward momentum. The Ukraine2EU programme will harness expertise from current EU Member States to help successfully navigate the accession process and prepare Ukraine for its future in the European Union,” said Marta Kos, EU Commissioner for Enlargement.
The programme will provide targeted support to key Ukrainian authorities, including the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, the Government Office for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration and the Verkhovna Rada’s Secretariat and European Integration Committee, as well as Ministry of Justice as they work together towards Ukraine’s EU path. EU accession is a complex process and requires strong cooperation between Ukrainian stakeholders across all sectors.
“Ukraine has set out to become a member of the European Union. This is a significant undertaking that requires a strong commitment to change, along with strategic planning to reform and align legislation with EU standards. We navigate under unique circumstances, and both we and our partners understand this well. Together, we are moving toward our goal,” stated Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration – Minister of Justice of Ukraine, Olha Stefanishyna.
The programme’s activities will focus on strengthening the capacity of Ukraine’s key actors in managing EU accession negotiations, increasing the availability of expertise in the field of EU law and raising awareness and understanding of EU accession among Ukrainian society and stakeholders. It will also support civil society organisations contributing to EU accession.
“Sweden is proud to join hands once again with Lithuania and Denmark in our unwavering support for Ukraine’s EU accession. To support the people of Ukraine is an investment in our joint future, freedom, and stability. Sweden is a friend on Ukraine’s journey to EU membership, and Ukraine2EU will help to pave the way,” stated Ulrik Tildeström, Special Envoy of Sweden for Ukraine’s Reconstruction, Business Sector and Development.
The programme will run from 2025 to 2027, and will be implemented by the Lithuanian Central Programme Management Agency. “Lithuanian experts have been working with Ukrainian institutions for many years, assisting in key reforms. The Ukraine2EU programme will further strengthen this partnership and help Ukraine prepare for EU membership,” said Rasa Suraučienė, Deputy Director of the agency.
Background information
With this new programme, the EU, Denmark, Lithuania and Sweden reaffirm their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s future in the EU as the basis for its recovery. It has been designed as a horizontal instrument aimed at assisting Ukraine’s public sector institutions and their employees to manage and coordinate the EU accession processes, harmonize its legislation with with the EU law, and ensure that the public is well informed about Ukraine’s European integration process.
For more updates on Ukraine2EU, visit the programme’s official Facebook page.
