European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos stated that by the end of November the EU plans to open all negotiating clusters with Ukraine regarding its accession to the EU, but she emphasized that progress is being hindered by actions from Hungary that block further steps.
During the European Summit on Enlargement in Brussels, Kos outlined these plans and stressed the importance of both sides fulfilling their commitments.
You know, I am a bold person, and we must keep our promises. We – me and my team – are pressuring the candidates: they must fulfill their obligations. But we must also fulfill ours. We say that the enlargement process is merit-based, and it works both ways. This isn’t just about Ukraine. I am deeply impressed by what they are doing – at a time when bombs are falling on their country. The same goes for Moldova. They have done their part. Therefore by November we will be ready to open all clusters
– Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement
Hungary and the Next Steps: Blockade and the EU’s Response
Although Hungary previously supported granting Ukraine candidate status and starting negotiations, recently it has been creating obstacles to further movement within the negotiation process.
This is unfair. And this is not how I understand European solidarity and geopolitical necessity. But, of course, I am confident that we will find a solution. I already said at today’s press conference: neither Ukraine nor Moldova need Orbán to carry out reforms. They can do this themselves
– Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement
Moving Toward Practical Action: Is a Formal Opening of Clusters Necessary?
Kos emphasized that accession has two components – the technical, handled by the European Commission, and the political, which depends on the positions of the member states. According to her, technically Ukraine and Moldova have met all the conditions for opening negotiating clusters, and the screening was completed in record time.
We have really worked a lot, especially with Ukraine and Moldova. The screening process occurred in record time. I believe that member states will be able to push the process forward. The European Union has always found a way out even from the most challenging situations – that is its strength
– Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement
In the European Commission’s Enlargement Report of November 4, it notes Ukraine’s exceptional commitment to joining the EU, while underscoring the need to fight corruption and accelerate reforms in the area of the rule of law.
Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Taras Kachka noted that this report is one of the best in three years for Ukraine.