EU Accession Talks Loom for Ukraine and Moldova Amidst Hungarian Opposition
The European Commission has approved the initiation of EU accession negotiations for Ukraine and Moldova, affirming that both nations have met the necessary prerequisites. This decision, revealed by diplomatic sources, aligns with a meeting of EU member state representatives aiming to evaluate the Commission's verdict. The Commission's requirements included measures against corruption and oligarchic influence in Ukraine and improved minority rights, specifically addressing concerns from Hungary over its Hungarian community in Ukraine.
Hungary, a close ally of Russia within the EU, poses a significant threat to the process, as it has indicated its intent to block Ukraine's accession negotiations. The unanimity required among the 27 member states means Hungary's opposition could derail the proceedings. This comes at a time when pressure mounts from the other 26 nations for Hungary to facilitate moving forward with Ukraine's EU accession.
Despite potential setbacks, there is substantial support within the EU for starting negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova before the end of June. Upcoming key meetings, such as the summit of EU heads of state and government on June 27-28 in Brussels, will likely be decisive. Handling the accession of Ukraine, a large agricultural country with over 40 million inhabitants, presents numerous challenges, particularly regarding financing.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues his diplomatic efforts, visiting France for the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings. Zelensky emphasized Europe's precarious security situation, describing Ukraine as 'the key to security' on the continent in the face of an increasingly aggressive Russian regime.
- The European Commission's positive assessment extends to Moldova, which has also fulfilled its three required priorities for beginning accession talks. The Committee of Permanent Representatives to the EU, also known as Coreper, is currently addressing these considerations.
- Moreover, the European Commission mentioned potential advancements for Montenegro due to its recent positive steps and fulfillment of EU requirements. This highlights a broader context of potential EU expansion amidst modern geopolitical tensions.
