EU Initiates Membership Talks with Ukraine and Moldova
The European Union has initiated membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova, marking significant progress for the former Soviet states despite Russian opposition. Ukrainian leaders praised the move, while the EU acknowledged a challenging road ahead involving extensive reforms. The discussions aim to align these countries with EU standards and could potentially complete by 2030.
LUXEMBOURG: On June 26, 2024, the European Union began negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova for EU membership, marking a significant vote of confidence in these former Soviet states amidst ongoing Russian opposition.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmygal and President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the move as historic and a step closer to a united Europe.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also expressed optimism, though the path ahead involves extensive reforms and potential geopolitical hurdles.
Ukraine and Moldova's bids follow Russia's 2022 invasion, with Ukraine setting a target of 2030 for accession completion.
The talks include aligning laws with EU standards and negotiating on 35 subjects like taxation and environmental policy.
This initiative aligns with the EU's broader goal to integrate more nations, including those in the Western Balkans, despite internal EU opposition, particularly from Hungary.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmygal and President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the move as historic and a step closer to a united Europe.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also expressed optimism, though the path ahead involves extensive reforms and potential geopolitical hurdles.
Ukraine and Moldova's bids follow Russia's 2022 invasion, with Ukraine setting a target of 2030 for accession completion.
The talks include aligning laws with EU standards and negotiating on 35 subjects like taxation and environmental policy.
This initiative aligns with the EU's broader goal to integrate more nations, including those in the Western Balkans, despite internal EU opposition, particularly from Hungary.
