• The EU agreed to resume accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova starting June 15, 2026.
• The decision follows Hungary lifting its veto against Ukraine’s membership bid.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskiy described the talks as significant political support.
• The negotiations will address fundamental issues such as the rule of law.
• Hungarian Prime Minister Magyar emphasized the lengthy nature of the accession process.

The European Union has formally announced the commencement of accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova, set to begin on June 15, 2026. This decision follows the lifting of a long-standing veto by Hungary, which was previously under the leadership of pro-Russian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. At a recent meeting in Brussels, EU ambassadors from the 27 member states confirmed the move to enter negotiations with both candidate countries, describing it as a strategic choice amidst growing global uncertainty, according to Al Jazeera and Reuters.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed gratitude, emphasizing that "Ukraine is defending itself and, in doing so, all of Europe," highlighting the importance of the EU keeping its word amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Moldovan President Maia Sandu also welcomed the announcement and underlined her country's commitment to continuing reforms necessary for EU alignment, as both leaders consider these discussions essential for their nations' future security and integration into Europe, according to Le Monde and Reuters.

The resumption of these talks marks an important shift following Hungary's new government reaching an agreement with Ukraine on the rights of the Hungarian minority, a matter that had previously stalled negotiations. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen both stated that this step is a recognition of the efforts made by Ukraine and Moldova to implement necessary reforms despite facing significant challenges, according to Al Jazeera and Le Monde.

As the accession process is projected to be lengthy, with estimates suggesting it may take up to 10 to 15 years for Ukraine to potentially close all required chapters, Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar clarified that Budapest does not support a fast-tracked accession path for Ukraine. The initial discussions will commence with fundamental issues, such as governance and the rule of law, which are paramount for both nations to meet EU standards, as detailed by Reuters and Le Monde.