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The European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen claims that Brussels will be able to present its framework for EU accession talks with Ukraine in summer.
She said this at a press conference during a press conference with Chairman of the center-right European People Party group (EPP) in Brussels on February 21, according to a FREEDOM correspondent.
Von der Leyen elaborated on the timeline, which takes the European Parliament election in June into account.
“We are making excellent progress on the screening process. That is very good. And we are still working on the negotiation framework… My best guess it will not be ready before the European elections but afterwards. I see the development of the different negotiation positions. It will take its time. But I guess, around summer, the beginning of summer we’re gonna be ready,” stated Von der Leyen.
The European Commission leader also shared her plans on interaction with pro-Ukrainian politicians in the new Parliament.
“I work with pro-European, pro-NATO, pro-Ukrainian, clearly supporters of our democratic values groups. So, it is more the question “What is the content?” And you know that every European election brings the change in the composition of different political parties and different political groups. So, the content counts and those who are defending democracy against the Eurosceptics and those who are defending our values against Putin’s friends. These are the ones I want to work with and I know I can work with,” explained Ursula Von der Leyen.
“Our red line is clearly defined. As Ursula said it, it is about “Yes” to Europe, «Yes» to Ukraine, and «Yes» to the rule of law. Three key principles which we stand for. And this is our red line to all extremists on this continent. They can never be a part of us,” the Leader of the EPP Group in the European Parliament Manfred Weber added.
The European Parliament election will take place on June 6-9, 2024.
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