Full Breakdown
António Costa's Push to Advance Ukraine and Moldova's EU Membership Amid Hungarian Opposition
9/30/2025, 1:37:56 AM
Overview of the Situation
European Council President António Costa is spearheading efforts to advance Ukraine and Moldova's applications for European Union (EU) membership, despite ongoing opposition from Hungary, particularly from Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. As leaders prepare for a pivotal summit in Copenhagen, Costa's proposal aims to streamline the accession process by allowing key negotiating clusters to be opened with a qualified majority of EU member states, rather than requiring unanimous consent.
The Proposal to Bypass Hungary's Veto
Costa's initiative seeks to alleviate the stalemate caused by Hungary's veto, which has hindered Ukraine and Moldova's progress toward EU membership. Under existing rules, all 27 EU member countries must agree on each stage of the accession process. Costa's plan would enable candidate countries to begin necessary reforms and demonstrate alignment with EU standards, even if one or two member states oppose the initiation of negotiations. This approach is seen as crucial for maintaining the credibility of the EU's enlargement process.
Diplomatic Efforts and Support
Costa has been actively lobbying EU capitals to garner support for his proposal, engaging in discussions during a recent tour of European capitals and at the United Nations General Assembly. His emphasis on enlargement as a significant geopolitical investment for the EU reflects the urgency of the situation. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos has also highlighted Ukraine's readiness for the next steps in the accession process, stating, "All clusters have been screened, in record time. Ukraine has delivered. It's now up to member states to give the green light."
Criticism and Opposition
Despite Costa's efforts, there remains skepticism regarding the feasibility of bypassing Hungary's veto. Critics argue that any changes to the accession process must still respect the collective decision-making authority of EU member states. Additionally, the political landscape in Hungary could shift with upcoming elections, potentially altering Orbán's stance on Ukraine's membership bid.
Implications for Moldova
Moldova's Deputy Prime Minister Cristina Gherasimov has echoed the need for EU leaders to act decisively to support both Moldova and Ukraine's membership aspirations. Following a recent parliamentary election that reaffirmed a pro-European majority, Gherasimov emphasized the importance of EU credibility in Moldova, stating, "It's the EU's turn to reciprocate." The urgency of the situation is compounded by concerns over Russian interference in Moldova's political processes, which could jeopardize its pro-EU trajectory.
What's Next?
As the Copenhagen summit approaches, EU leaders will scrutinize the existing rules governing new entrants to the bloc. Costa's proposal, if accepted, could pave the way for significant advancements in Ukraine and Moldova's EU membership bids. However, the ultimate decision still rests with the member states, and the outcome of Hungary's political landscape will be critical in determining the future of these accession talks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When a country is held back for no objective reasons, despite meeting the criteria, the credibility of the entire enlargement process is at risk,” — Mercier, EU Diplomat
- “Enlargement is an important priority for the president of the European Council,” — EU Official
- “Both Ukraine and Europe cannot afford to see Ukraine's momentum for reforms slow down. This is the moment to accelerate.” — Marta Kos, EU Enlargement Commissioner
- “We very much hope there will be sufficient unity for a decision to unblock the situation and to move forward with the opening of the new clusters.” — Cristina Gherasimov, Moldova's Deputy Prime Minister
