The ambassadors of the 27 European Union member states agreed on June 12, 2026, to begin the first phase of EU membership accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova [1, 2, 3, 4]. The initial Intergovernmental Conference to open the first cluster of negotiations is scheduled for June 15 [1, 2].
The opening cluster of talks will focus on fundamental rights, rule of law, judicial systems, and public administration reforms [1, 3, 4]. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, "Today, the European Union took a major step forward. At the first Intergovernmental Conference on Monday, we will open the cluster on fundamentals; the backbone of the accession process" [1]. They added that launching the talks "recognizes the determination, courage, and hard work of both countries in implementing reforms even in the face of great challenges" [4].
Ukraine has prioritized EU membership as a strategic goal despite the ongoing conflict with Russia, having submitted its application shortly after the Russian invasion began in February 2022 [1, 3, 4]. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the talks' start is "important political and moral support for Ukraine and all of Europe," emphasizing that "Ukraine is defending itself and the whole of Europe" and that "EU commitment is equally vital" [3, 4].
Moldova, also granted EU candidate status alongside Ukraine in 2022, welcomed the talks. President Maia Sandu stated, "We have completed the work that had to be done and will continue advancing reforms" and expressed readiness to negotiate all topics [3, 4].
Hungary had previously blocked Ukraine’s accession talks but lifted its opposition after reaching an agreement regarding the rights of Hungary's minority in Ukraine [1, 2, 3, 4].
EU accession negotiations typically involve six clusters covering multiple chapters and require unanimous approval from all member states before a country can join [1, 3, 4]. The EU views enlargement as a strategic decision to build a larger union amid global uncertainty [3, 4].
The accession talks begin just days after the ambassadorial agreement, with the first cluster on fundamentals set to formally open at the Intergovernmental Conference on June 15, 2026 [1, 2].
