Ukraine takes another step towards EU accession
Photo: Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
The Ukrainian government has taken another step toward European integration. It is necessary for the opening of the first cluster in the pre-accession negotiations between Ukraine and the EU, according to Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal.
On Wednesday, May 14, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the Roadmaps needed to open the first cluster of negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU. The roadmaps cover the rule of law, public administration reform, and the functioning of democratic institutions.
"They fully comply with Ukraine's international obligations, our strategic and program documents," the Prime Minister said.
Shmyhal also said that the Cabinet of Ministers had approved the negotiating position on the first cluster of negotiations, "Fundamentals of the EU Accession Process."
The Prime Minister emphasized that Ukraine's goals remain unchanged: to open negotiations on all six negotiating clusters this year, and to become an integral part of the EU after the war is over.
Ukraine's accession to EU
In February 2022, a few days after the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine officially applied for EU membership. Subsequently, the European Union granted Ukraine candidate status, and in December 2023 officially authorized the opening of accession negotiations.
Ukraine continues to implement Brussels' recommendations for integration into the European system. In particular, preparatory work is underway to open negotiation clusters.
Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine wants to open 5-6 clusters this year.
According to Kaja Kallas, Head of European Diplomacy, the EU is looking for a mechanism to counter Hungary's blocking of decisions. It is about the possible creation of coalitions.
