Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on the European Union to break the deadlock caused by Hungary’s veto and move forward with Ukraine’s accession talks, stressing that European integration remains Kyiv’s top priority.
Speaking on Thursday in Rome at the Ukraine Recovery Conference, Zelenskyy said Ukraine was ready to open all negotiation clusters with the EU under Denmark’s presidency. He urged Brussels to find a solution to Hungary’s objections, which have delayed Kyiv’s progress towards membership.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has repeatedly argued that admitting a country at war would pose a serious risk to the bloc’s stability.
On the sidelines of the conference, Zelenskyy met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. He thanked them for a fresh support package worth more than €2 billion ($2.33 billion) and welcomed the creation of a new reconstruction fund to help attract investment into Ukraine.
Beyond the EU discussions, Zelenskyy held separate meetings with several European leaders. After talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, he praised Berlin’s military backing, particularly in air defence systems. He also underlined Germany’s role in helping Ukraine expand drone production, describing Germany as a “decisive” partner in advancing Ukraine’s EU bid.
In meetings with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, Zelenskyy discussed energy security, joint drone production, and further political support. He thanked Bulgaria for joining the so-called “Coalition of the Willing” and backing Ukraine’s European course.
He also met Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, highlighting Poland’s importance as a key transit hub and a partner in joint defence initiatives.
Earlier in the day, Zelenskyy attended a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, with representatives from 32 countries and organisations. For the first time, US figures including General Keith Kellogg and Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal took part.
“It is important that the Coalition is working for Ukraine’s security today and long-term protection tomorrow,” said Zelenskyy.
Ukraine is determined to move closer to Europe, with Zelenskyy calling for no more delays.
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