Perspective – Written by Ruslan Bortnik
The EU–Ukraine trade relationship is at a critical crossroads. What began as a bold wartime liberalization—suspending tariffs to offer Ukraine an export lifeline—has now given way to a cautious return of quotas and safeguards amid mounting political pressure from EU border states. This shift highlights the complex balancing act between solidarity and protecting the interests of the EU population. As Brussels negotiates a revised framework, the debate underscores a broader question: Can Ukraine’s economic integration withstand political realities without sacrificing the European Union’s vital agricultural sector or unity? It serves as a reminder that Ukraine’s accession would demand a major EU overhaul—one whose shape and price tag remain uncertain.
The full analysis is available here.