The European Union has officially initiated negotiations for membership with Ukraine and Moldova, marking a significant step in the bloc’s expansion efforts. This announcement was made by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, via social media platform X.
Von der Leyen stated, “Today the European Union has taken a major step forward. All member states have agreed to open the first cluster of accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova.” The inaugural intergovernmental conference is scheduled for June 15, where discussions will commence on fundamental principles such as the rule of law and democratic governance, which underpin the EU.
She emphasized that this decision recognizes the determination and hard work demonstrated by both countries in advancing reforms despite significant challenges. “This is a signal that the EU’s offer of peace, stability, and opportunities is unmatched. Enlargement is a strategic choice,” she added.
The green light for these negotiations was also confirmed by António Costa, President of the European Council. Meanwhile, Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, remarked that this move underscores the commitment of both nations to European values, particularly in light of ongoing aggression from Russia.
It is important to note that EU leaders agreed to commence accession talks with Ukraine at the end of 2023, with Hungary’s then-Prime Minister Viktor Orbán being the only dissenting voice. Since that decision, no clusters within the accession negotiations had been opened due to the requirement for unanimous support from all EU members, which Hungary had previously withheld.
This year, the parliamentary elections in Hungary resulted in a victory for the Tisza party, leading to the appointment of Péter Mándy as the new Prime Minister, succeeding Orbán. Following this political shift, Kyiv and Budapest reached an agreement concerning minority rights in Ukraine, a key condition for advancing Ukraine’s EU membership aspirations. Consequently, Budapest has now effectively unblocked the start of negotiations.
The EU has commenced accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova, recognizing their reform efforts and commitment to European values. This decision follows recent political changes in Hungary that facilitated the negotiations.