What does the resumption of EU accession talks mean?

Ukraine and Moldova’s EU membership process restarts, with intergovernmental talks on fundamental principles set for the 15th.

Why were the talks previously stalled?

Ukraine faced Hungary’s veto; Moldova’s process was hindered by foreign interference.

What are the stages of EU accession talks?

33 chapters across six clusters require legal alignment with EU standards through phased negotiations.

Why is this resumption significant?

It recognizes reform efforts and signals EU’s unmatched offer of peace, stability, and opportunity.

Intergovernmental conferences on December 15 will launch Phase 1 talks on rule of law and democracy.

EU Members Agree to Restart Accession Talks with Ukraine and Moldova

Published Jun 13, 2026 8:25 AM ・ Updated Jun 18, 2026 6:11 PM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: CNA (Central News Agency)

All European Union member states have agreed to restart accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. The EU will hold intergovernmental conferences with both countries on the 15th, beginning talks on fundamental principles such as rule of law, human rights, and justice.

(CNA reporter Wu Po-wei, Brussels, December 12) All European Union (EU) member states reached an agreement late on December 12 to restart accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. The EU plans to hold intergovernmental conferences with each country on the 15th, launching talks on fundamental principles such as the rule of law, human rights, and justice.

According to a press release issued by the European Commission on the evening of the 12th, opening the first phase of accession talks with these two countries represents a 'major step forward' for the EU.

Prior to this, both Ukraine and Moldova had already been granted candidate status for EU membership. However, Ukraine's progress had been blocked by the Hungarian government led by former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, while Moldova's domestic political situation had been hindered by foreign interference, causing accession talks to stall or even halt.

Following the formal approval of this agreement, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on the social media platform X, stating that negotiations on 'fundamental principles' will begin at the intergovernmental conferences on the 15th. She emphasized that this is a crucial foundation encompassing core EU values and principles, including the rule of law and resilient democratic institutions.

Regarding this development, she expressed that it recognizes the determination, courage, and efforts demonstrated by both countries in advancing reforms despite immense challenges. It also sends a signal that the peace, stability, and opportunities offered by the EU are unparalleled.

According to EU regulations, the overall accession negotiation process consists of 33 chapters grouped into six thematic clusters. Candidate countries must negotiate each chapter with the EU and amend their national laws to meet EU standards in order to progress. Only after completing all negotiations can a country become a full EU member. (Editor: Tang Sheng-yang) 1150613

FACT BOX

Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
Category: Taiwan

EU Members Agree to Restart Accession Talks with Ukraine and Moldova

⚡ Key Points

FACT BOX

Editorial & Verification Standards

FAQ

Cite this article — HOW TO CITE

AI CRAWLER ACTIVITY