Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asserted that Ukraine’s path to EU membership would continue irrespective of opposition from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Orbán has been a consistent opponent of Ukraine’s membership, raising concerns about alleged discriminatory policies and potential war involvement. Zelenskyy emphasized that EU membership is the choice of the Ukrainian people and hinted at procedural workarounds to bypass Hungary’s veto. In response, Orbán accused Zelenskyy of attempting to dictate to Hungarians and employing “moral blackmail” in order to push Ukraine’s membership.
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Lithuania is urging the EU to take decisive steps to make Ukraine’s EU membership application a reality, according to a letter sent to EU capitals. The letter proposes starting technical-level negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, potentially excluding Hungary initially if 26 member states agree, while also suggesting a 2030 target year for accession. Lithuania believes that initiating negotiations would boost Ukrainian morale and support reforms amid intensified Russian military actions, while inaction could weaken public support and the will for reform. This proposal, along with the broader context of the war and potential political influences, will be discussed at the upcoming EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Copenhagen.
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The European Commission stated there are “no objective reasons” to prevent Ukraine from opening the first phase of its accession process, despite Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s continued veto. Orbán, citing the results of a national consultation opposing Ukraine’s membership, maintains his opposition. The Commission highlights Ukraine’s progress on reforms and its readiness to begin negotiations, emphasizing that the process is merit-based. Diplomats are considering decoupling Ukraine’s and Moldova’s bids, but the Commission states its desire to support both countries’ accession.
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John Q. Hosedrinker