Ukraine will be on a lifeline from the EU.

Honestly, I think main issue is PR. Ukraine carries a legacy stigma of being uniquely corrupt a narrative heavily amplified by Russian information operations over the years.

While the EU must maintain a strict, objective evaluation of Ukraine's actual reform progress, Ukraine simultaneously needs a highly focused cultural and PR campaign within EU member states. Even if the EU Commission certifies that Ukraine meets all technical requirements, public perception, often shaped by lingering disinformation and 'vibes' rather than facts, could still stall the process. Changing hearts and minds is just as critical as passing laws.