Europe is at a crossroads. The question is no longer whether Ukraine belongs in the EU - it’s how Ukraine’s experience and resilience can strengthen it. The answer is clear: Ukraine is not a burden. It is a strategic opportunity for the EU and the liberal democratic world, writes Yevheniia Kravchuk, ALDE Party Vice-President and Member of Parliament of Ukraine.
This opinion piece was originally published in ALDE Party's Liberal Bulletin in June 2025. Click here to read the full publication.
Since 2014 and especially during the past three years, Ukraine has held the frontline of freedom. For us, the liberal values of freedom, dignity and human rights are not abstract notions. They are lived realities, defended at great cost.
When the war ends - and we are confident it will end with Ukraine’s victory - our country must take its place as a fully-fledged contributor to Europe’s collective security. We don’t want to be protected forever. We want to protect Europe, together. This means joint production, joint defence planning and strategic cooperation, bringing our experience to the table.
At the leaders’ summits in London and Paris in March, President Zelenskyy made it clear: Europe needs Ukraine just as much as Ukraine needs Europe. If we want lasting peace, we must act, and not just react, to deter future aggression.
The European Council’s White Paper on Defence and the ReArm Europe initiative are crucial steps forward. We thank Member States supporting these efforts, especially those contributing to joint procurement and boosting European defence capabilities. Denmark’s model of direct military investment in Ukraine shows how political will can turn into real action.
We are especially grateful to the liberal family of Europe for the unwavering support, in strengthening sanctions, promoting accountability and standing firm for our shared principles.
Sanctions remain one of the few effective tools to pressure Russia. Weakening them now would be a sign of surrender. We urge our partners to stay united and firm.
Now, Europe must reduce its dependence on external actors, even allies like the US. Ukraine stands ready to contribute not as a country in need, but as a partner ready to lead. Our defence sector needs investment and scale, and frozen Russian assets should fund it. We’re also ready to share operational know-how in cyber defence, air defence and logistics.
Ukraine’s experience must shape Europe’s security. This is the moment to redefine what Europe stands for and ensure it is ready to defend itself – and to succeed.