EU CONSIDERS GRADUAL MEMBERSHIP FOR UKRAINE The EU is exploring options to give Ukraine some membership rights early while setting a clear roadmap for full accession. Proposals include immediate benefits, a transition period, or following the standard accession path. A draft peace plan envisions Ukraine joining by 2027, with interim EU benefits. Kyiv gained candidate status in 2022, began formal talks in 2024, but progress is slowed by Hungary’s objections.(*Walter Bloomberg)