**Ukraine and Moldova Edge Closer to EU Membership Amidst War and Reforms**
In a significant development from Brussels and Kyiv, the European Commission announced on Friday that Ukraine and Moldova have fulfilled all prerequisites to commence formal negotiations for European Union membership. This announcement comes as a beacon of hope for both nations, particularly for Ukraine, which is embroiled in a relentless conflict with Russia.
European Commission spokesperson on enlargement, Ana Pisonero, confirmed the readiness of both countries to start the membership talks, stating, “We confirm that on the Commission side we consider that all the steps have been met by the two countries.” The ball is now in the court of the EU member states to adopt the negotiating framework, a crucial step before the EU Presidency can call an intergovernmental conference to officially begin the negotiations.
The prospect of opening talks with the EU serves as a significant morale booster for Ukraine, especially as the war with Russia intensifies, with Moscow’s forces making advances in the eastern Donetsk region and opening a new front in the northeastern Kharkiv region. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expressed optimism, urging European partners to initiate the membership negotiations within the month. “Every day, the Ukrainian people fight for the right to be part of the European family in the war against the Russian aggressor,” Shmyhal stated.
Despite the enthusiasm, unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states is required to kickstart the negotiations, a process known for its lengthy duration. Belgium, holding the rotating EU presidency until the end of June, is preparing for intergovernmental conferences with Ukraine and Moldova on June 25 in Luxembourg, pending unanimous backing.
However, this unanimous backing faces challenges, notably from Hungary, which has expressed reservations about Ukraine’s readiness and seeks additional conditions in the negotiating frameworks. With Hungary set to take over the rotating presidency from July 1, there are concerns that the process could be delayed until 2025.
Kyiv’s bid for EU membership, submitted shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, has been met with significant reforms by the Ukrainian government despite the war’s devastating impact. These reforms span anti-corruption measures, public administration regulations, and food safety, showcasing Ukraine’s commitment to aligning with EU standards.
As the EU member states deliberate on the Commission’s assessment, the path to EU membership for Ukraine and Moldova remains fraught with political complexities but symbolizes a pivotal step towards European integration and solidarity.