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Ukraine has reached a significant stage in its bid to join the European Union after the opening of the first cluster of accession negotiation chapters during the 2nd EU-Ukraine Intergovernmental Conference in Luxembourg.
The development took place under the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which coordinated efforts to secure agreement among all 27 member states. The first cluster covers core EU principles, including democratic governance, the rule of law, fundamental rights, accountability and public administration standards.
Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna described the opening of the cluster as an important moment in Ukraine’s path toward EU membership. She said the decision reflected the Union’s continued backing for Ukraine and its commitment to the country's future within the European bloc.
Raouna also referred to Cyprus’ own experience as a country affected by invasion and occupation, saying this perspective shaped the Presidency’s approach to discussions concerning Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Addressing the conference shortly after another night of attacks against Ukraine, she expressed support for the Ukrainian people while acknowledging that substantial work remains before accession negotiations can be completed. She stressed that future reforms and progress in meeting EU requirements will be crucial as the process continues.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos welcomed the agreement, describing it as the most important advance in Ukraine’s accession efforts since formal negotiations began in December 2023. She suggested that additional negotiating chapters could be opened as early as July if progress continues.
Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka thanked both the European Commission and the Cypriot Presidency for helping achieve consensus among member states. He described the opening of the first cluster as a landmark event and said EU membership remains a central aspiration for Ukrainian society.
