The European Union is shifting to a tailored strategy regarding the membership aspirations of Ukraine and Moldova. The pace at which each country advances toward EU membership will now depend on their individual achievements.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that once the negotiation process begins, each candidate nation will be responsible for its own progress. “As soon as the first cluster opens, each candidate country must take responsibility for itself. They need to implement reforms, which will vary depending on the specific candidate country,” she remarked.
In response to questions about the potential opening of further negotiation clusters, von der Leyen emphasized her focus on Moldova, as the press conference was centered around the Moldova-EU summit.
She reiterated that the EU will continue to evaluate progress based on results rather than political statements or arbitrary timelines. “I believe that a merit-based process is far better for Moldova than the term ‘as soon as possible.’ Because ‘as soon as possible’ means nothing. But a merit-based process clearly indicates the foundations of our methodology, which has been agreed upon by all 27 member states,” she added.
Von der Leyen further noted that the negotiations for membership are fundamentally merit-based, allowing Moldova to achieve results while the EU fulfills its commitments.
On June 15, 2026, Ukraine officially opened its first negotiation cluster, titled ‘Fundamentals,’ as part of its EU membership process. This cluster addresses issues related to the rule of law, judicial systems, fundamental rights and freedoms, and the functioning of democratic institutions.
To gain EU membership, Ukraine must navigate through six negotiation clusters and align its national legislation with European standards.
The EU has adopted a merit-based approach for Ukraine and Moldova's membership progress, emphasizing individual responsibility for reforms. Ukraine has already opened its first negotiation cluster, focusing on key democratic principles.