Lührmann deems the commencement of EU accession discussions as a "significant day" for Ukraine.
Progress in rule of law, anti-corruption, and press freedom have been significant for Ukraine and Moldova, according to Luhrmans. Nevertheless, meeting all criteria for EU membership might take a long time, possibly even several decades. For Ukraine specifically, establishing peace with Russia is a critical requirement. No admission is assured.
Luhrmans underlined that if Ukraine joins the EU, the latter must prepare for this expansion. Reforms should focus on allowing "less damaging obstacles" to occur. In recent months, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has hindered negotiations with Ukraine. Given that Hungary will soon assume the EU presidency from July, discussions are unlikely to advance shortly.
Relations with Ukraine will be a topic at the EU summit in Brussels commencing Thursday. Leaders will discuss potential "security guarantees" for Ukraine, which Kiev has previously agreed to in a similar fashion with the U.S. Germany and Ukraine already have bilateral agreements.
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- Anna Lührmann viewed the initiation of EU accession talks as a "historical" moment for Moldova, echoing her sentiments towards Ukraine.
- During the EU summit in Brussels on Thursday, leaders will also delve into the topic of potential EU accession talks with Moldova, alongside Ukraine.
- Lührmann suggested that the EU should prepare for expansions, such as that of Ukraine, by prioritizing reforms aimed at reducing "less damaging obstacles."
- Europe and the EU have been closely observing the progress of rule of law, anti-corruption, and press freedom in Ukraine and Moldova, vital criteria for EU membership.
- Lührmann underscored that while Ukraine's entry into the EU is not guaranteed, the commencement of EU accession talks represents a significant step towards potential membership.
- Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been a barrier in the recent EU accession talks with Ukraine, which could stall any progress, considering Hungary takes over the EU presidency from July.
