EU Accession Negotiations: Ukraine and Moldova Officially Enter the Next Phase.

Historic Moment for Kyiv and Chisinau: The Path to the EU Begins

According to Espreso.tv: The European Union has officially opened accession negotiations with Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized on this occasion that the candidate countries are now responsible for implementing the necessary reforms. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, who traveled to Kyiv on June 8, sent a clear signal of support – an important milestone on the path of both states into the European community.

The official kick-off for the talks with Ukraine was given by a government conference on June 15. At the same time, all EU member states agreed to open the first negotiation chapter with both countries. Just three days earlier, on June 12, Ursula von der Leyen announced that EU states unanimously supported this process. She made it clear:

'As soon as the first chapter is opened, each candidate country is responsible for itself.' Ursula von der Leyen

The Commission President added that a performance-based process for Moldova is far better than the vague formulation 'as quickly as possible.' With these statements, she underscored that the progress of integration is intrinsically linked to the implementation of profound reforms. The commencement of negotiations is not only a significant step in the relationship between the EU and the two Eastern European states but also evidence of the growing support for their European ambitions by the Union.

Why This Step Could Change the Region

The start of the accession talks is a decisive factor that could sustainably influence the political and economic situation in Eastern Europe. It shows both the strong will of Ukraine and Moldova for Western integration and Brussels' willingness to actively promote these efforts. Especially against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the process gains an additional strategic dimension.

The reforms demanded by von der Leyen will be the crucial litmus test for the candidates to successfully pass all phases of the admission process. If successful, accession could ultimately strengthen stability and security throughout the region and open new economic perspectives.