Such a split could seriously harm Kyiv at a time when EU accession is seen as a security guarantee, commented the EU politicians. The idea of separating the applications, which were submitted nearly simultaneously at the start of the full-scale Russian invasion and have been processed together since then, has gained traction recently, largely due to Hungary’s ongoing veto against Ukraine’s bid. Moldova’s upcoming parliamentary elections on September 28 have intensified this debate, as progress on EU membership could help counter Russia’s hybrid interference and societal polarization.
“The recent push for enlargement is driven by Ukraine. It would be unfair to leave Ukraine out. We must progress together”, said Marie Bierre, Denmark’s Minister for European Affairs.
Both Kyiv and Chisinau have met the technical requirements to begin early accession negotiations. Chisinau also opposes separating Ukraine’s and Moldova’s applications.
Furthermore, Ukraine has completed preparations for bilateral discussions with the European Commission as part of its EU accession process. Denmark has committed to exerting “maximum pressure” on Hungary to lift its veto.