EU Opens Membership Talks with Ukraine and Moldova, Signs Agreement with Kyrgyz Republic

The European Union has officially begun accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, marking a significant step towards EU membership for the two former Soviet states amidst ongoing Russian aggression. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called this move a 'historic day,' emphasizing Ukraine's commitment to European integration despite the long road ahead. The negotiations, starting with a conference in Luxembourg, will involve aligning Ukrainian and Moldovan laws with EU standards in 35 policy areas, a process expected to take many years. Hungary, a notable EU member with ties to Russia, has previously delayed Ukraine’s progress but has since allowed talks to proceed. The EU's support for Ukraine and Moldova, including substantial financial aid, underscores a strategic shift towards integrating these nations into the European bloc and away from Russian influence. Concurrently, the EU has signed an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with the Kyrgyz Republic, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in areas like trade, sustainable development, and security.