Yesterday at 20:03
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has confirmed that Ukraine has fulfilled all the necessary conditions to begin negotiations on the first cluster of chapters in its EU accession process.
Speaking at a press conference following the European Council summit in Brussels, von der Leyen praised Ukraine’s reform efforts, which continue despite the constant pressure of war.
“Under continuous fire, Ukraine adopts one reform after another. That is why the European Commission supports the opening of the first cluster of negotiations,” she stated. “Ukraine has fulfilled its task – now we must act too. After all, the accession process is based on merit. And Ukraine deserves to move forward.”
European Council President António Costa echoed von der Leyen’s support, highlighting the broader strategic significance of Ukraine’s integration into the EU.
“Ukraine’s security is inseparable from Europe’s security. Despite extraordinarily difficult circumstances, the Ukrainian government is implementing reforms at an impressive pace,” Costa emphasized.
At the summit, 26 out of 27 EU leaders backed opening the first negotiation cluster, which includes fundamental principles related to the rule of law, democracy, and public administration.
However, Hungary withheld its consent, effectively blocking formal proceedings, as unanimity is required for accession talks to begin.
Though the summit failed to produce a breakthrough due to Hungary’s veto, EU leaders reiterated their unwavering support for Ukraine’s European future.
All member states, except Hungary, endorsed the European Commission’s assessment that Ukraine is ready to begin talks on the “Fundamentals” cluster and reaffirmed Ukraine’s sovereign right to choose its own path.
Despite the setback, Kyiv remains hopeful. Ukrainian officials expressed optimism that the first cluster of negotiations will still be opened in the near future, signaling that Ukraine’s drive toward EU membership remains on track, even if delayed by political hurdles.
