Ambassadors from the European Union’s 27 member states have agreed to advance accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, paving the way for the first formal phase of talks to begin on Monday.
The decision marks a significant procedural step in the long and complex process of EU enlargement, which requires candidate countries to align their laws and institutions with EU standards across multiple policy areas.
According to officials, the first “cluster” of negotiations will focus on foundational reforms, including rule of law, democratic institutions and governance standards.
EU accession talks are structured into six thematic clusters covering areas such as the internal market, fundamental rights and external relations. Each cluster contains detailed policy “chapters” that candidate countries must gradually implement.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the decision, describing it as both a symbolic and strategic boost for his country as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
Writing on Telegram, he thanked EU leaders for what he called “this strong step for Europe”, and said the opening of negotiations represents “significant political and moral support” for Ukraine.
He also reaffirmed that EU membership remains a central national goal aimed at anchoring Ukraine within Europe’s political and economic structures.
Moldovan President Maia Sandu also welcomed the development, saying the country had “done the necessary work” and would continue implementing reforms required for EU integration.
Chisinau has pursued closer ties with the EU in recent years, positioning membership as a key foreign policy priority alongside domestic reform efforts.
EU leaders formally agreed in December 2023 to open accession talks with both Ukraine and Moldova. However, the process was delayed due to political objections from Hungary’s previous government, which had blocked the start of negotiations.
That impasse was resolved after Budapest reached an agreement with Kyiv on minority rights, allowing member states to move forward with the first phase of talks.
European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the decision reflects the “determination, courage and hard work” of both candidate countries.
They stressed that accession negotiations remain a lengthy process requiring sustained reforms and alignment with EU standards.
“Today, the European Union took a major step forward,” they said in a joint statement, calling the move a signal that the EU’s offer of “peace, stability and opportunity” remains strong.
The first Intergovernmental Conference, scheduled for Monday, will formally open the initial negotiation cluster. From there, Ukraine and Moldova will begin the detailed technical process of aligning national legislation with EU requirements.
While the latest decision represents an important milestone, full EU membership typically involves years of negotiations, reforms and political approval from all member states.
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