The EU moves forward to open the first negotiation block for Ukraine’s accession

Brussels.- The European Union began preparations this Wednesday to open the first block of formal negotiations for Ukraine’s accession, after Hungary’s veto was lifted, which represents a key step in this process that requires the unanimity of the Twenty-Seven.

Member States gave the green light to begin those talks with both Ukraine and also candidate for accession Moldova, in a meeting of the EU Permanent Representatives held today in Brussels, according to the rotating Cypriot Presidency.

This common position to open the first cluster (thematic block) for negotiations with both countries must now be formally adopted by the Twenty-Seven next week, with the aim of formally initiating those contacts at two interministerial conferences scheduled for June 15 in Luxembourg, according to community sources.

The start of the aforementioned process “marks a significant milestone on the path to European integration” for Ukraine and Moldova, according to a spokesperson for the Cypriot Presidency, who highlighted that this sends “a strong message of unity and determination” within the EU and reflects “the strategic priority” of the community’s enlargement policies.

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Ukraine applied for EU membership in February 2022 following Russia’s invasion, became a candidate country rapidly in June of that year, and accession negotiations were officially opened in June 2024.

Until the recent electoral defeat of the former Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orbán, that country had been blocking the opening of the six clusters or thematic blocks that organize the 35 technical chapters that make up the country’s adaptation process to European legislation. This step requires the unanimity of the Twenty-Seven, at each stage on the path to EU accession.

In recent years, Ukraine has continued to carry out the reforms agreed upon with Brussels, especially concerned about the situation of corruption in the country and the continuity of the conflict generated by the Russian invasion in 2022.