EU's Stance on Ukraine and Moldova's Accession Bids: A Complex Interplay

The European Union (EU) is facing a significant challenge regarding the simultaneous membership applications of Ukraine and Moldova, primarily due to Hungary's veto on Ukraine's bid. This situation has created a complex political landscape where the EU is reluctant to decouple the two applications, fearing that doing so would undermine Ukraine's position amid ongoing security concerns stemming from Russia's aggression.

ANI NewsEuronewsLithuania opposes the “decoupling” of Moldova and Ukraine in EU accession negotiations

Both Ukraine and Moldova submitted their EU membership applications shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. The EU has treated these applications in parallel, viewing their accession as crucial for regional stability and security. However, Hungary's veto has stalled progress, leading to discussions about the potential decoupling of the two bids. This debate has intensified with Moldova's upcoming parliamentary elections on September 28, 2025, as the country seeks to counter Russian influence.

Euronews

Marie Bjerre, Denmark's Minister for European Affairs, emphasized the need to support both Ukraine and Moldova, stating, "It would not be fair to leave Ukraine alone." In contrast, Hungary's representative, János Bóka, asserted that Hungary supports Moldova's progress but opposes any linkage between the two countries' applications, framing the process as merit-based. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda warned that separating the two bids could have "catastrophic consequences" for Ukraine.

Lithuania opposes the “decoupling” of Moldova and Ukraine in EU accession negotiationsANI NewsHungary supports Moldova’s European path, but not its “coupling” with Ukraine, says Hungarian ministerEuronews

Criticism has emerged from various EU member states regarding Hungary's veto. Jessica Rosencrantz, Sweden's Minister for European Affairs, labeled the veto as "totally unacceptable," while Benjamin Haddad, France's Minister for European Affairs, accused Hungary of obstructing the accession process for domestic reasons. The prevailing sentiment among critics is that decoupling Moldova from Ukraine would legitimize Hungary's veto and weaken the EU's unified stance against external threats.

Euronews

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos highlighted the urgency of unblocking the accession process, noting that both Ukraine and Moldova have fulfilled the necessary technical criteria. She stated, "EU enlargement has become somehow entangled in this geopolitical contest between free, democratic societies on one side and authoritarian regimes on the other." Kos also referenced a Eurobarometer poll indicating that 56% of EU citizens support enlargement, with 52% backing Ukraine's accession specifically.

EuronewsANI NewsThe Straits TimesEU wants enlargement – its citizens, less so

While the majority of EU citizens support enlargement, there are notable discrepancies in public opinion across member states. For instance, support for enlargement is highest in Sweden (79%) and Denmark (75%), while countries like France and the Czech Republic show lower levels of enthusiasm. This divergence reflects a broader uncertainty about the implications of further EU expansion, particularly in the context of rising geopolitical tensions.

The Straits Times

As the EU navigates this complex situation, the focus remains on finding a resolution that allows both Ukraine and Moldova to advance in their accession processes. The upcoming parliamentary elections in Moldova and continued pressure from other EU member states may influence Hungary's stance, potentially paving the way for a breakthrough in the stalled negotiations.

ANI News