Ukraine and Moldova Begin EU Membership Talks Amid Russian Conflict

The European Union has initiated formal accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, marking a significant step towards Western integration while navigating political and security challenges.

Ukraine and Moldova have started the process of joining the European Union, a move seen as a shift away from Russian influence.
The talks are largely symbolic for now, with detailed negotiations to follow after the EU reviews Ukrainian and Moldovan legislation.
Hungary's opposition and its ties to Russia could complicate the accession process, but the EU has found legal workarounds to support Kyiv.
Ukraine and Moldova face extensive reforms to meet EU standards, including combating corruption and aligning agricultural and customs regulations.
The EU's expansion to include these countries may require significant changes to its own rules and governance structures.