Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy hailed the European Commission’s latest progress report on Tuesday as clear evidence that Ukraine is moving “confidently” toward European Union membership. The assessment, he said, demonstrates the country’s readiness to advance accession talks and reinforces its strategic goal of full integration into the European bloc.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Zelenskiy expressed optimism over the findings of the Commission’s report, calling it “a sign of trust and recognition of Ukraine’s reforms.” He emphasized that Kyiv is ready to open negotiations on the first three clusters of EU accession chapters and urged Brussels to take “decisive action” to remove any “artificial obstacles” standing in the way of a united and resilient Europe.
The European Commission’s report, released ahead of the EU summit in December, reviewed Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to align with European standards, particularly in areas such as the rule of law, governance, and anti-corruption. Brussels acknowledged progress despite the immense challenges of wartime governance, noting that Ukraine has sustained key reforms even under military pressure. The positive evaluation signals a potential green light for the formal start of accession talks later this year.
For Kyiv, the report serves not only as a diplomatic victory but also as a morale boost at a critical juncture. As the war with Russia grinds on, the prospect of EU membership remains a cornerstone of Ukraine’s long-term security and reconstruction strategy. Zelenskiy’s government has consistently portrayed EU integration as a pathway to economic recovery, democratic consolidation, and lasting peace.
However, challenges remain. Some EU member states have expressed caution about further enlargement, citing the need for institutional reform within the Union itself before admitting new members. Additionally, Ukraine must continue to deliver on judicial reforms, ensure transparency in public institutions, and strengthen anti-money-laundering frameworks all prerequisites for accession negotiations.
Despite these hurdles, Zelenskiy’s remarks highlight a deep sense of determination within Kyiv’s leadership. “This is not just a political goal but a civilizational choice,” the president stated in his address. “Ukraine’s path toward Europe is irreversible because it represents the will of our people and the future we are building even amidst war.”
The Commission’s report, while cautiously optimistic, underscores the geopolitical weight of Ukraine’s application. For the EU, supporting Kyiv’s membership bid reinforces its influence in Eastern Europe and strengthens its response to Russian aggression. For Ukraine, it signals validation that its sacrifices on the battlefield and its reforms in governance are bringing tangible progress.
As Brussels prepares for the next round of enlargement discussions, Zelenskiy’s confident tone reflects both hope and urgency. The coming months are expected to determine whether the EU will formally open negotiations a milestone that could reshape Europe’s political landscape and solidify Ukraine’s place within it.