EU to start membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova on June 15
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The European Union will launch official accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova on June 15, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa announced. All 27 member states agreed to open the first negotiation cluster, focused on fundamental values, after Hungary lifted its veto.
Hungary's Veto Lifted
Hungary's new Prime Minister Peter Magyar last week announced an agreement with Ukraine to strengthen the rights of the Hungarian minority, paving the way for Budapest to drop its veto on EU accession talks. The Cypriot presidency of the Council confirmed that member states have now agreed on a common position for the first negotiation cluster, completing the preparatory process.
Negotiation Structure
The first cluster covers values and fundamental principles that candidate countries must share to join the EU. In total, negotiations will proceed across six clusters encompassing dozens of chapters. After talks conclude, all 27 member states must approve and ratify the accession of new countries.
Background of Talks
Formal accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova were launched in June 2024. Due to the veto of Hungary's previous government, official talks with Kyiv were impossible, though informal expert-level discussions continued. Von der Leyen and Costa called the start of negotiations a recognition of the resolve and reforms shown by both countries.
Zelensky Statement on EU Momentum
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on June 13 that Ukraine’s path toward European Union membership has gained “new momentum” following confirmation that the EU is ready to open the first negotiation cluster. This statement provides a direct quote from the Ukrainian leader, adding a layer of official reaction not present in the original article.
NATO Chief on Ukraine Membership
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated that Ukraine is closer to NATO membership than ever before. The alliance and G7 announced new defense packages for Kyiv, with Australia, the UK, and Germany pledging additional military aid.
Zelenskyy on NATO Invitation
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said an invitation to join NATO “would have been ideal,” while acknowledging the defense packages announced by NATO and the G7.
What's Next
The first negotiation session is scheduled for June 15 in Luxembourg. It remains unclear how long the talks will take, as each cluster requires unanimous approval from all member states.
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EU to start membership talks with Ukraine, Moldova on June 15
