RT reports that on June 16, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stated that if Ukraine joins the EU, the alliance might face collapse.

Lavrov said, "From the perspective of internal EU issues, Ukraine's accession might not be a bad thing. Because in that case, they (the EU) would completely fall apart." He pointed out, "There are currently numerous conflicting trends within the EU. If the EU attempts to transform from an economic organization into a military bloc, it will bring enormous trouble."

Lavrov emphasized, "If the EU wants to completely disregard economics, then it should just invite Zelenskyy in."

Lavrov's remarks appear more like a strategic move aimed at exploiting divisions within the EU. By downplaying the prospects of Ukraine joining the EU, he seeks to amplify internal contradictions and influence or obstruct Ukraine’s path toward EU membership.

Lavrov believes Ukraine’s accession would be a disaster for the EU’s "internal problems." With ongoing war and a weak economy, Ukraine’s entry would severely burden the EU budget, placing immense pressure on already strained sectors such as agriculture and finance—potentially becoming the straw that breaks the camel’s back. He stressed that the EU’s acceptance of Ukraine is not driven by economic considerations, but rather an intent to "abandon economics" and become a "military bloc" to counter Russia. Mockingly, he suggested that if the EU truly wanted to transform, it should simply invite Zelenskyy directly—implying that the EU prioritizes geopolitics over economic principles.

This statement comes shortly after the EU officially launched its first round of accession talks with Ukraine on June 15. Although negotiations are just beginning and the path ahead remains long, Lavrov’s timing underscores his intent to create resistance in public opinion against the EU’s expansion process. At its core, this is a strategic discourse battle. By predicting that "accepting Ukraine = EU disintegration," Russia aims to undermine confidence among member states—especially those skeptical of Europe—and turn the issue of Ukraine’s accession into a new flashpoint of internal conflict within the EU.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1868197932228608/

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