EU accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova to begin on June 15

All European Union member states have agreed to open the first accession negotiations cluster with Ukraine and Moldova, European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a joint statement on June 12.

“At the first Intergovernmental Conference on Monday, we will open the cluster on fundamentals; the backbone of the accession process,” the joint statement said.

“It covers the core values and principles on which the EU is built, from the rule of law to strong democratic institutions.”

This is a recognition of the determination, courage and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms, even in the face of immense challenges, the statement said.

“And a signal that the EU’s offer of peace, stability and opportunity is unmatchable.”

Enlargement is a strategic choice, Costa and Von der Leyen said.

“By bringing our nations closer together, we strengthen peace, security and prosperity across our continent,” they said.

In a world marked by growing uncertainty, a larger European Union is in our common interest, the statement said.

Enlargement remains one of the EU’s greatest success stories and our best investment in our shared future, it said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a message on X: “I thank all our partners in the EU and every leader personally for this strong step for the sake of Europe”.

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

“As we have said, Ukraine is doing what is necessary, and it is important that the EU is also keeping its word,” he said.

“The opening of the first cluster is significant political and moral support for our state and our people,” Zelenskyy said.

“We also thank Europe for all its other support – support that shows true leadership and helps us protect lives. Everything has also been done to open the next clusters. We also congratulate Moldova on this step, which we are taking together.”

Moldovan President Maia Sandu said on X: “I welcome the decision to open the first cluster of accession negotiations on Monday.

“Moldova is ready to open all of them — we’ve done the work, and we’ll keep delivering reforms. Looking forward to the EU–Moldova summit on 22 June,” Sandu said.