EU does not believe Ukraine will join by 2030, - media
There is a growing belief among European diplomats that the negotiation processes regarding Ukraine’s and Moldova’s accession to the EU could be separated. Some diplomats also doubt that Ukraine will be able to become a member of the European Union by 2030.
According to Censor.NET, Rapporteur reports this, citing three EU diplomats.
European diplomats are increasingly discussing the possibility of separating the negotiation processes regarding Ukraine’s and Moldova’s accession to the European Union.
According to sources interviewed by the publication, behind closed doors the issue is already being discussed not so much in terms of whether the separation will happen, but rather when it will take place.
One diplomat stated that there is no certainty among EU representatives that Ukraine will join by the end of the decade.
"Nobody serious believes Ukraine will be a member of the EU by the end of the decade, if ever," he said.
In his opinion, more effective ways to support Ukraine might include assistance through NATO and the continued provision of military aid.
The EU fears delays in Moldova’s accession
Another diplomat believes it would be unfair to delay Moldova’s European integration if, for certain reasons, Ukraine is unable to make equally rapid progress in its negotiations.
At the same time, a third source drew attention to the risk of Russian interference in Moldova. According to him, the lack of tangible progress in EU enlargement could make the country more vulnerable to Moscow’s influence operations.
Kos admits EU enlargement is possible by 2030
The discussion about a possible split in the negotiations comes against the backdrop of a statement by European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.
On October 7, during a speech before members of the European Parliament, she stated that at least two or three new countries could join the EU by 2030 if they meet the necessary conditions.
Currently, Montenegro and Albania are considered the closest to membership. Kos did not specify which country might become the third.
Ukraine and Moldova are still continuing negotiations together
Despite discussions about a possible split, on October 7, EU countries took another step toward continuing the negotiation process with Ukraine and Moldova.
After Hungary lifted its veto, EU ambassadors approved sending invitations to Kyiv and Chisinau to present their negotiating positions on two new clusters—"Internal Market" and "Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth."
Hungary had previously blocked this process, demanding that Ukraine strengthen guarantees of educational rights for the Hungarian minority in Zakarpattia.
The Verkhovna Rada is expected to consider the relevant bill on October 12. If it is adopted and the necessary procedures in the EU are completed, the official opening of the two negotiation clusters could take place as early as next week.
This year, Ukraine has already opened the "Fundamentals" and "External Relations" negotiation clusters.
