All European Union member states have agreed to open the first negotiation cluster in Ukraine’s EU accession process. The announcement was made by Ursula von der Leyen.
According to von der Leyen, the decision was unanimously supported by all EU member states. The first intergovernmental conference, scheduled for Monday, will formally open the “Fundamentals” cluster.
The cluster covers the core principles on which the European Union is built, including the rule of law, democratic institutions, human rights, and effective public administration.
“This is a recognition of the determination, courage, and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms despite immense challenges,” von der Leyen said, referring to Ukraine and Moldova.
She emphasized that EU enlargement remains one of the bloc’s greatest success stories and an important investment in Europe’s shared future.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the decision, calling the opening of the first cluster a significant political and moral boost for Ukraine.
“As we have always said, Ukraine is delivering on what is required, and it is important that the EU is also keeping its word. The opening of the first cluster is significant political and moral support for our country and our people,” Zelensky said.
The president thanked Ukrainian service members, citizens, and European partners for supporting Ukraine on its path toward EU membership.
He also stressed that Ukraine has completed the necessary work to open additional negotiation clusters and congratulated Moldova on reaching this milestone alongside Ukraine.
The EU accession process is divided into thematic clusters covering different areas of legislation and governance. Opening the first cluster is considered one of the most important milestones on a candidate country’s path toward full membership in the European Union.
