LUXEMBOURG: The European Union (EU) on Tuesday kicked off historic membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova, marking a significant move aimed at integrating the former Soviet states despite strong opposition from Russia.
The commencement of accession talks signifies a crucial moment for Kyiv and Chisinau, setting them on a prolonged path towards EU membership amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and internal challenges.
Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmygal, addressing the start of the talks via video link, described the day as the beginning of a new chapter in Ukraine’s relationship with the EU. “Dear friends, today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between Ukraine and the European Union,” Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmygal said.
President Volodymyr Zelensky echoed these sentiments, calling it a “historic day” and reaffirming Ukraine’s unwavering commitment to European integration. “We will never be derailed from our path to a united Europe and to our common home of all European nations,” the Ukrainian leader wrote on social media.
The EU’s decision to open accession talks comes amid Russia’s ongoing military aggression, which began with the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Both Ukraine and Moldova formally applied for EU membership following these hostilities.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the talks as “very good news,” emphasizing the opportunities ahead despite the challenges. She underscored the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and Moldova in their reform efforts.
Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Olga Stefanishyna, expressed confidence that Kyiv could complete the necessary reforms to meet EU accession criteria by 2030. The process will involve extensive scrutiny of Ukraine and Moldova’s compliance with EU standards across various sectors, including taxation and environmental policy.
However, Hungary, known for its close ties with Russia within the EU, has been critical of advancing Ukraine’s membership bid. Hungarian Europe Minister Janos Boka expressed skepticism about Ukraine’s readiness to meet accession criteria.
The EU’s move to start talks before Hungary assumes the EU presidency next month reflects divisions within the bloc over Ukraine’s candidacy. Critics argue that Ukraine’s accession could strain EU institutions and provoke further tensions with Russia.
For Moldova, which shares a border with Ukraine and is grappling with internal political challenges, the start of EU negotiations comes amidst allegations of Russian interference ahead of presidential elections in October. President Maia Sandu condemned alleged Russian efforts to destabilize Moldova, emphasizing the country’s aspiration to align more closely with the European Union.
Ukraine and later Moldova lodged their bids to join the EU in the aftermath of Russia’s assault in February 2022.
Congrats, Moldova 🇲🇩 and Ukraine 🇺🇦 !
Today the EU has formally started accession talks with the two countries.
Read more about how countries join the EU: https://t.co/nxRQDzaKxF pic.twitter.com/v0C4pcFS07
— European Parliament (@Europarl_EN) June 25, 2024
