Ukraine Expects EU Accession Talks to Open in Weeks, Aims for 2027 Milestone
Ukraine expects the EU to open formal accession negotiating clusters in the coming weeks, aiming for major progress by 2027. Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka confirmed this, as Hungary's veto on the process has been lifted. Ukraine seeks full EU membership, rejecting symbolic alternatives.
Ukraine anticipates the European Union will open the first formal negotiating clusters for its accession talks in the coming weeks, marking a key procedural step. Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka told Politico on April 23 that Kyiv expects progress in late May or early June, when EU ministers are set to consider launching these structured reform areas.
The formal start of negotiations, previously stalled by internal divisions including Hungary’s veto, is now gaining momentum. Moldova’s accession track is expected to advance concurrently. This development follows the EU's approval of a €90 billion financial support package for Ukraine and its 20th sanctions package against Russia on April 23.
Hungary’s incoming leadership has indicated it will not support fast-track EU accession for Ukraine but will not obstruct the standard process. Kachka rejected suggestions of a «symbolic» EU membership, emphasizing that Ukraine seeks full, classical accession. Kyiv still views 2027 as a realistic milestone for closing most chapters and beginning to draft the accession treaty.