In a significant development, Ukraine and Moldova have successfully met the requirements set by the European Commission to commence negotiations for joining the European Union. The announcement was made on Friday, with Commission spokesperson Ana Pisonero confirming that both countries have implemented crucial reforms aimed at combating corruption and promoting minority rights.

While the Commission's decision indicates progress, the final decision to move forward now rests with the member states of the EU. To initiate accession talks, all 27 member countries must agree on the negotiating framework, leading to an intergovernmental conference involving Ukraine and Moldova.

EU diplomats are pushing for an early start to the negotiations and are aiming to convene an ambassadors' discussion on June 12. This meeting will address any concerns that member countries may have. Some member countries have expressed reservations, with Hungary particularly opposed to Ukraine's entry. As Hungary prepares to assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU in July, their stance could potentially delay the initiation of talks.

During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron pledged full support for Ukraine's aspirations to join both the EU and NATO. Macron called for Ukraine's accession talks to be launched by the end of June. He also announced the establishment of a €200 million support fund for the Ukrainian economy, specifically targeting companies interested in exporting and investing in critical infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Montenegro also received positive news from the Commission. The country's EU candidacy was praised, and an intergovernmental conference with Podgorica was recommended to proceed to the next stage of the accession process. Montenegro, which obtained candidate status in 2010, is now one step closer to becoming an EU member.

The applications of both Ukraine and Moldova to join the EU were made in early 2022, shortly after Russia's invasion. In a swift response to Moscow's aggression, both countries were granted candidate status in June 2023, and now they are eagerly awaiting the next phase of negotiations.

The path to EU membership for Ukraine and Moldova is still full of challenges and uncertainties. However, with the support of key EU member states and progress made in implementing necessary reforms, there is hope that these countries will soon embark on a new chapter as potential members of the European Union.