The Presidents of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Moldova, Maia Sandu, are calling on the European Union to initiate formal accession negotiations with both countries, asserting that they have met all the conditions set by Brussels.
On Sunday, the two leaders met in Kyiv to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Chornobyl nuclear disaster. President Sandu highlighted the intertwined security concerns of both nations, stemming from the historical legacy of Chornobyl and the ongoing challenges posed by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. “Our European path is of paramount importance,” she stated.
Both countries were granted candidate status for EU membership in 2022 and have since completed their assessments of EU law. Moldova aspires to join the bloc within this decade, while Ukraine is advocating for membership at the earliest opportunity.
President Sandu further remarked that the EU has consistently upheld the principle that progress is rewarded. “Moldova and Ukraine have both met the conditions required to formally open accession negotiations. Upholding this commitment is not only equitable; it is vital for the credibility of the entire enlargement process,” highlighted the Moldovan President.
Additionally, she expressed her appreciation for the EU’s recent approval of a €90 billion loan package for Ukraine and the imposition of new sanctions against Russia, stating that a strategy of “maximum support” for Kyiv and “maximum pressure” on Moscow is essential.
EU leaders reached a consensus on both the loan and the sanctions after addressing a prolonged veto by Hungary’s government, which had impeded progress on opening negotiation clusters for Ukraine and Moldova.
“Both of our states deserve to be part of a strong, united Europe. We are actively working to ensure that all clusters are opened as soon as possible, facilitating a shared success in EU membership for Ukraine, Moldova, and the entire European Union,” remarked President Zelenskyy.
In a separate development, EU governments have also agreed to commence drafting an accession treaty with Montenegro, marking a new chapter in that country’s long-standing membership discussions. Podgorica is hoping to join the bloc by 2028.
