European Union initiates formal dialogue for membership with Ukraine and Moldova.
In the chat, Schmyhal, linked via video call from Luxembourg, acknowledged the ongoing effort towards EU membership. "[We're] ready," he stated, affirming readiness for the required reforms.
Amidst tough circumstances due to the ongoing Russian conflict, Ukraine and Moldova have exhibited massive effort in rule of law, anti-corruption, and press freedom, according to German Staatssekretärin Anna Lührmann during the talks' initiation. Both countries have reportedly made significant strides in rule of law, anti-corruption, and press freedom, Lührmann added from Luxembourg.
Ukraine and Moldova applied for EU membership following the February 2022 commencement of Russia's conflict against Ukraine. Achieving all membership requirements could take years, if not decades, for the Eastern European nations. Specifically, achieving peace with Russia is a requirement for Ukraine's membership. There's no assurance of membership.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen applauded Ukraine and Moldova for embarking on the EU membership negotiations, noting their steadfast resolve to pursue EU membership. In her video message on X, von der Leyen underscored that, given the Russian conflict, there would be no easy route to EU membership.
Regarding Ukraine's potential EU membership, Lührmann mentioned that the EU would need to start planning for this expansion, with reforms ensuring that less harmful obstacles could be averted. In recent months, progress has been made in negotiations between Hungary and Ukraine, particularly with pro-Russian Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
As Hungary takes over the EU Council Presidency from July, the accession talks may initially proceed at a slow pace. Hungarian European Minister Janos Boka declared on Tuesday that the country was "still miles away" from fulfilling membership criteria. For most procedural steps, unanimous agreement among the 27 EU members is essential. As a result, Hungary could wield its veto frequently.
Relations with Ukraine will be on the agenda at the EU summit in Brussels from Thursday. Discussions will center on security guarantees for Ukraine, which Ukraine has already consented to in a similar fashion with the USA. Bilateral agreements between Germany and Ukraine currently exist.
