Ukraine and Moldova have launched formal accession negotiations with the European Union, marking what officials describe as a historic moment for both countries. Senior EU officials and ministers from both nations met in Luxembourg on Monday to begin substantive talks on the first cluster of EU requirements, covering rule of law and democracy.
The start of negotiations comes after a delay caused by Hungary's previous opposition. Viktor Orban, Hungary's prime minister, had blocked progress on the membership process despite a symbolic decision to open talks in June 2024. The talks moved forward after Hungary's government changed in April, allowing EU member states to reach unanimous agreement last Friday to proceed with negotiations.
Ukraine and Moldova both applied for EU membership shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, and the EU granted them candidate status that same year. The formal start of substantive talks means both nations will now begin the lengthy process of adopting thousands of European laws and aligning their institutions with EU standards.
The accession process typically requires candidates to meet strict criteria across numerous policy areas. Opening the first cluster on rule of law and democracy creates a pathway for talks on other areas, including the single market, environmental policy, and economic and social matters. Each member state must ultimately approve any new EU additions.
EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa said in a joint statement that they praised "the determination, courage and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms, even in the face of immense challenges."
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded positively, saying: "Ukraine is doing what is necessary, and it is important that the EU is also keeping its word. The opening of the first cluster is significant political and moral support for our state and our people."
However, EU officials have expressed concern about the pace of reforms. Ukraine has completed only about 15 percent of reforms contained in a ten-point plan agreed in December with EU enlargement commissioner Marta Kos. The plan includes strengthening anti-corruption agencies and reforming judicial appointment processes.
EU officials believe that with sufficient effort, Ukraine could complete technical talks in approximately four years, though they acknowledge that membership ultimately remains a political decision.
Heather Grabbe, a former European Commission adviser on enlargement, said the opening of cluster one was significant but would also serve as a reality check. She noted that Ukraine cannot bypass the lengthy process of adopting and implementing EU laws on its territory.
Ukraine continues to face significant challenges, fighting Russia's ongoing invasion while simultaneously working to meet EU requirements. The country's authorities have made high-profile anti-corruption arrests that EU officials view as positive signs of commitment to reform, though progress on several key areas remains incomplete.