Ukraine and Moldova open EU accession negotiations as first cluster launches in Luxembourg

The launch in Luxembourg

European affairs ministers gave the formal green light on 15 June for the first negotiating cluster with Ukraine and Moldova, moving the enlargement process into a phase of structural reforms for the first time since Croatia joined the bloc 13 years ago. The conference — the second intergovernmental meeting with Moldova and a parallel session for Ukraine — took place at 21:00 at a high-level gathering in Luxembourg.

“Today we launch discussions on the backbone of this process: including justice and fundamental rights.”

The opening follows the Council’s earlier approval of the negotiating frameworks (some logistical planning had floated a 25 June date, but the formal launch was brought forward). European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa struck a joint note of resolve.

“Determination, courage and hard work demonstrated by both countries in advancing reforms, even in the face of immense challenges.”

The first cluster and reform benchmarks

Cluster 1, centred on the rule of law and democratic principles, is the initial and most demanding pillar of accession. The EU presented its common position with clear benchmarks for each chapter, while Moldova and Ukraine reaffirmed their commitment to delivering concrete reforms.

“Negotiations are extremely technical and detailed. We start now with the first cluster, on fundamental values — a key dossier. It is usually the first to open and the last to close.”

Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, Cristina Gherasimov, said the country would present roadmaps covering areas such as the independence of the judiciary, anti-corruption, human rights, public procurement and financial control. The Commission underscored that expansion is “the best investment in a future of peace, security and prosperity.”

Moldova’s accelerated path

Progress was possible partly because the EU unlocked a separate technical track for Chișinău in December 2025, after Hungary’s Viktor Orbán blocked Ukraine’s dossier. Moldova and Ukraine had been tied as a package, but Brussels agreed to let Moldova advance technical negotiations on its own, a first in the history of the enlargement process.

“Moldova does not have time, because the security risks are very high.”

That decision paid off: several chapters — education, research and culture, as well as external relations, defence and security — are now ready to be formally opened and even closed on the same day. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos said she expected the remaining five negotiating clusters to be opened in July.

Political reactions

President Volodimir Zelenski framed the moment in both symbolic and pragmatic terms, stressing that Ukraine was meeting its commitments and calling on the EU to do the same.

“Ukraine is doing what is necessary, but it is important that the EU also keep its word. The opening of the first cluster represents significant political and moral support for our state and our people.”

Moldovan President Maia Sandu signed the decree authorising the launch of negotiations and described EU membership as “our path to peace, prosperity and a better life for all citizens.” Special envoy Nicu Popescu noted that Russian propaganda had long insisted Moldova would never become a candidate, but the events of 15 June proved otherwise. He stressed that Brussels evaluates concrete results — how many corruption cases reach court, how many end with final convictions, and how effectively institutions function — rather than fixed calendar dates.

A wider enlargement moment

Montenegro, regarded as the most advanced Western Balkan candidate, also advanced its integration process this week, with its president heading to Strasbourg to address the European Parliament during a session in which MEPs debate and vote on progress reports for regional candidates. While a possible 2030 timeline is floated in policy circles, officials from both sides insist the pace will depend on the rhythm of reforms and the agreement of all member states.