The European Union has officially launched the accession process for Ukraine and Moldova, marking a significant step in their efforts to align with Western values and institutions amid ongoing conflict and geopolitical tensions. For Ukraine, EU membership is viewed as a critical security guarantee as it continues to defend against the Russian invasion. Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister, Taras Kachka, emphasized the need for fast and comprehensive accession, citing Russia’s permanent policy of aggression against Ukraine and threats to Europe. The formal launch requires both countries to commit to years of political reforms, with Ukraine starting the complex process while simultaneously fighting the war.
However, there are considerable concerns within the EU about Ukraine’s readiness to join, as well as the security implications given the conflict with Russia and Moscow’s annexation of five regions. While NATO membership is seen as Ukraine’s best security guarantee, the Trump administration and other member states have opposed this while the conflict continues. Ukraine’s accession process was previously obstructed by Hungary under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, but his successor, Péter Magyar, recently lifted the veto after Brussels agreed to unlock frozen EU funds for Budapest. Russia has also attempted to keep Moldova within its orbit through disinformation campaigns.
Countries seeking EU membership must complete negotiations in 35 policy areas, a process that can take years. The recent intergovernmental conference in Luxembourg opened talks on five key chapters, including judiciary and fundamental rights, justice, freedom and security, public procurement, and statistics and financial control. These chapters are crucial for EU countries concerned about Ukraine’s ability and willingness to fight corruption. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called the start of the process a “major milestone,” while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged EU partners to consider offering Ukraine “associate membership” to revitalize talks aimed at ending the war.
Despite differing opinions on the speed of Ukraine’s accession, with some countries pushing for faster integration and others suggesting workarounds short of full membership, EU officials insist that the process should be merit-based and lead to nothing less than full membership. The launch of the accession process represents a significant moment for both Ukraine and Moldova, as they seek to anchor their futures in the West and secure their sovereignty against external threats.
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