EU Opens 5 Accession Chapters for Ukraine and Moldova After Hungary Lifts Veto
Updated
Updated · Al Jazeera English · Jun 15
EU Opens 5 Accession Chapters for Ukraine and Moldova After Hungary Lifts Veto
3 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · Jun 15
Summary
Five accession chapters opened in Luxembourg on Monday, formally starting EU entry talks with Ukraine and Moldova on rule of law, rights, security, procurement, statistics and financial control.
Hungary's reversal unlocked the move after months of blockage: new Prime Minister Peter Magyar dropped Viktor Orban's veto days after Brussels released more than €16 billion in frozen EU funds.
Ukraine now begins years of reforms while fighting Russia's invasion, with Kyiv casting EU membership as a security anchor even as NATO entry remains off the table and some EU states question wartime accession risks.
Moldova also advanced despite Russian pressure, and the launch feeds a wider EU debate over whether to speed Ukraine's path through interim arrangements or keep enlargement strictly merit-based.
Can the EU reform itself to welcome Ukraine without triggering a crisis over funding and power?
How will the EU integrate Ukraine's agricultural might without dismantling its farming subsidy system?
Ukraine and Moldova Begin EU Accession Talks: Key Milestones, Reform Demands, and Geopolitical Stakes
Overview
On June 15, 2026, the European Union will take a historic step by formally opening the first accession negotiation cluster with Ukraine and Moldova in Luxembourg. This milestone follows years of anticipation and diplomatic efforts, highlighting the EU’s commitment to integrating its Eastern partners. The breakthrough was made possible after Hungary’s two-year veto—rooted in concerns over the Hungarian minority in Ukraine—was lifted due to a major political shift in Hungary, where Viktor Orbán’s government was replaced by Péter Magyar, who prioritized restoring ties with Ukraine. This decision marks real progress on the path to EU membership for both nations.