German MEP Manfred Weber backs EU special status for Ukraine

Manfred Weber, chairman of the European People’s Party (EPP), endorsed Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s proposal to grant Ukraine a special EU status as an associated member. The plan would allow Ukraine to attend EU Council meetings and appoint a representative to the European Commission, albeit without voting rights, to speed its EU integration. Weber described Ukraine as a "real security gain" for Europe, citing its experienced army and defence technology as a boost to the continent’s eastern flank. He argued that diplomatic efforts are limited by the war in Ukraine and that peace requires strong European unity. Weber also rejected former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a potential mediator, calling him unsuitable for the role.