Ukraine is poised to initiate its first cluster of negotiations for European Union accession on June 15, according to European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi. Speaking at an event in Kyiv titled “Ukraine on the Path to Membership: How to Implement the Next EU Enlargement,” Várhelyi emphasized that subsequent clusters could follow in mid-July.
“From a technical standpoint, we are prepared to proceed with a proactive approach. Final consultations with EU member states are currently underway. I am optimistic that we can officially open the first cluster during the intergovernmental conference on June 15, with additional clusters potentially launching in July,” Várhelyi stated.
He also acknowledged the challenging circumstances under which Ukraine is fulfilling its obligations, noting that the ongoing war poses significant obstacles. The European Commission is taking these conditions into account as it moves forward.
Várhelyi revealed that EU member states are considering a proposal that would allow Ukraine to enjoy certain benefits akin to those of member countries even before full accession. This suggestion echoes recent remarks from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who proposed the idea of “associated membership” for Ukraine, which would not grant full voting rights.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to Merz’s suggestion, asserting that Ukraine’s presence in the EU should be complete and not partial.
Since June 2022, Ukraine has held official candidate status for EU membership. The accession negotiations are structured into six thematic clusters, encompassing 35 chapters of EU legislation. Each cluster requires unanimous approval from all EU member states for formal opening or closure.
Ukraine is set to begin its EU accession negotiations with the first cluster opening on June 15. The ongoing war complicates the process, but discussions are underway for potential benefits prior to full membership.
Source: Radio Svoboda