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EU President Presses for Ukraine's Membership Amid Hungary's Veto

9/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

António Costa, European Council President, pushes Ukraine's European Union (EU) bid despite Hungary's veto.
He proposes opening clusters by qualified majority, requiring unanimous consent to close.
Hungary has blocked Ukraine's accession for over a year, citing war and minority concerns.
Moldova's Deputy Prime Minister urges EU action for both bids.
The Commission says reform is needed to preserve credibility.

History

Historical Context

The European Union's 2004 enlargement included ten new member states, reflecting its commitment to integrating Eastern Europe. This shift followed Ukraine's 2014 Association Agreement with the EU, aimed at political and economic alignment. Today, Hungary's veto of Ukraine's EU bid highlights ongoing tensions and the need for reforms to ensure EU unity amid external pressures, particularly from Russia.

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Story summary

António Costa, European Council President, pushes Ukraine's European Union (EU) bid despite Hungary's veto.
He proposes opening clusters by qualified majority, requiring unanimous consent to close.
Hungary has blocked Ukraine's accession for over a year, citing war and minority concerns.
Moldova's Deputy Prime Minister urges EU action for both bids.
The Commission says reform is needed to preserve credibility.

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