Brussels points out what Ukraine should do to join the EU

European Commissioner for Justice Michael McGrath has said that Kiev must bring corrupt politicians and businessmen to justice if it wants to become part of the European Union. In an interview with Politico, the official emphasised that the Ukrainian authorities, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, were under increasing pressure due to corruption allegations.

McGrath said that the EU would not support Ukraine's accession unless the country demonstrates the existence of an effective system to fight crime in the highest echelons of power. He stressed that each candidate for EU membership is obliged to prove its ability to investigate and punish corruption offences among top officials.

Each candidate country must have a robust system in place to investigate and prosecute high-profile corruption cases," McGrath said, adding that the EU requires strict rule of law standards from all countries seeking to become part of the Union.

The commissioner emphasised that Kiev must demonstrate real progress in this area if it expects EU support. He assured that the European Union will support Ukraine if it shows determination in the fight against corruption, but only if the reforms have a real effect.

If the rule of law standards are not respected, you will not get support to move towards accession," McGrath warned.