The European Parliament has expressed its encouragement for the Ukrainian government to continue advancing EU-related reforms. It has also reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to achieving a just and enduring peace.
The report from the Foreign Affairs Committee, which assesses Ukraine’s preparations for EU accession in light of Russia’s ongoing acts of aggression, was adopted with a vote count of 418 in favour, 135 against, and 41 abstentions. This marks the first enlargement report on Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, after Ukraine was granted EU candidate status and the initiation of accession negotiations.
Enlargement reports serve as the European Parliament’s response to the European Commission’s annual evaluations of candidate and potential candidate countries within the EU accession process.
“With solid reforms, Ukraine can reach the goal of joining the European Union where it belongs. Strengthening democratic institutions is and will remain essential, as is pushing ahead with judicial and anti-corruption reforms, reinforcing local and regional authorities and maintaining parliamentary pluralism. We also admire the role Ukrainian civil society is playing in the reform process. As Parliament, we want to send a clear signal that Ukraine belongs in the European family and that we will do everything so that it takes its rightful place as soon as possible”, said rapporteur Michael Gahler (EPP, Germany) after the vote.
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, emphasising that any peaceful resolution must respect the will of the Ukrainian people and not be imposed by external entities.
MEPs commended Ukraine for its significant efforts in strengthening its democratic institutions and encourage the government to maintain this reform momentum. They highlighted the importance of transparent and merit-based selection processes for judicial and anti-corruption bodies, urging Ukraine to intensify its reforms in the rule of law and public administration, alongside anti-corruption measures. Such advancements are deemed essential not only for EU membership but also for successful reconstruction and the establishment of economic trust.
The Parliament has called upon the European Commission to open negotiation clusters to expedite Ukraine’s EU membership application, contingent upon the nation’s continued adherence to the EU’s rules and the effective completion of the reforms already underway.
Additionally, the report expresses grave concerns regarding the evolving posture of the United States concerning Russia’s aggression under President Donald Trump. In light of these developments, MEPs asserted that the EU and its member states must remain committed strategic allies of Ukraine and reinforce their leadership role in supporting Ukraine’s pursuit of sovereignty, peace, and justice.
They have taken note of the recent meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, which starkly contrasts with Russia’s ongoing escalation of attacks against Ukraine. This situation further underscores Russia’s apparent lack of interest in a peaceful resolution and its intentions towards subjugating Ukraine.
MEPs have called upon President Trump to follow through on his commitment to implement additional economic sanctions against Russia and those nations that support its military endeavors. Furthermore, they reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to ensuring security guarantees for Ukraine, emphasising the necessity of taking all appropriate measures to enhance Ukraine’s armed forces and defence industry.
