How many member states are currently in the European Union?

The European Union currently has 27 member states. The figure of 28 likely stems from earlier times when the UK was still a member prior to Brexit, which completed its process on January 31, 2020. The EU had previously expanded to include 28 countries when Croatia joined in 2013. However, after the UK left, the number dropped to 27. This context is essential to understanding the current landscape of the EU.

When preparing for questions related to the number of member states, it's important to verify the most recent developments, as the composition of such alliances can change due to political factors, expansions, or separations.