EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa said all member states had agreed to open the first negotiating cluster. This was a recognition of the courage and reform efforts of both countries despite great difficulties. Enlargement was a strategic decision that served the common interest amid global uncertainties.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked for the step and stressed that Ukraine was defending itself and thus all of Europe. He called on the EU to keep its promises. The start of talks was important political and moral support for the country and its people.
Moldovan Maia Sandu also welcomed the start. Her country was ready to discuss all negotiation topics and would continue implementing reforms. The first round of talks deals with fundamental values and principles that are prerequisites for EU membership.
Overall, the candidates must go through six thematic clusters with dozens of chapters. After the negotiations are concluded, unanimous approval by all 27 member states and ratification in each country is required. The EU had officially opened accession talks with Ukraine in June 2024, after Kyiv applied shortly after Russia began its war of aggression in February 2022. Hungary had long blocked the process but relented after a change of government in Budapest.
EuroPulse reported on June 12, 2026, about higher salary payments and new contracts in Ukraine announced by Zelensky: Zelensky announces higher soldier pay and new contracts.
Source: www.n-tv.de
