EU Opens First Accession Negotiation Cluster With Ukraine, Moldova

The EU has agreed to open the first accession negotiations cluster with Ukraine and Moldova – Cluster 1 – Fundamentals, calling the move a historic step and a reward for the two countries’ resilience and reforms amid Russia’s war.

The European Council’s agreement to open the accession negotiations marks a major step in both countries’ long path toward EU membership. The decision paves the way for an Intergovernmental Conference on June 15, where the first negotiation stage – the “fundamentals” cluster – will be launched in Brussels.

“Today, the European Union took a major step forward,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

“At the first Intergovernmental Conference on Monday, we will open the cluster on fundamentals; the back of the accession process,” she added, explaining that it covers the core values and principles upon which the EU is built from.

She described the move as the recognition of the determination, courage and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms, even as they face major challenges amid the ongoing Russian war that has now entered its fourth year.

“Enlargement is a strategic choice,” said the European Commission President, and explained that, by bringing EU nations closer “we strengthen peace, security and prosperity across our continent.”

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The Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, which chairs the process this semester, said it was proud to have “driven forward this historic movement.”

In its own statement, Nicosia announced that June 15 will mark the start of the first accession conference with Ukraine and Moldova, adding that the “European Union is strongest when it stands united, principled and open to those committed to its values.”

By defending itself, Ukraine is defending Europe – Zelensky

President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked everyone who is fighting for Ukraine and helping to defend its national interests, as well as all of Ukraine’s partners in the EU, including each leader personally.

“Ukraine is defending itself and, by doing so, defending all of Europe – the idea that European nations can live united, free, and in peace” Zelensky said.

Zelensky said Ukraine is doing everything that is required on its side and underlined that the EU also keeps “its word,”  calling the opening of the first negotiation cluster significant political and moral support.

He thanked Europe for continuing to help Ukraine save lives, and congratulated Moldova on this step that they are taking together.