Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenskiy met with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to evaluate the timeline for opening the next negotiation chapters in Ukraine’s EU membership process.
The discussion focused on when the remaining five chapters could be advanced following the opening of the first negotiation chapter for Ukraine and Moldova. The parties also addressed the next steps in the European integration process.
Zelenskiy emphasized that opening the first chapter was significant in terms of the support given to his country. He noted that this step sends a strong and clear message against Russia’s attempts to divide Europe.
Financial Aid Package and First Tranche
The meeting also reviewed preparations for implementing the financial support package for Ukraine and releasing the first tranche. Ukraine expects these funds to arrive within this month to strengthen its defense against Russian attacks.
Security issues were also prominent in the talks. Zelenskiy stressed the need to strengthen air defense and coordinate security guarantees for the country as long as Russia continues its war.
Sanctions and Diplomatic Efforts
The parties discussed tightening sanctions against Russia. It was noted that the EU’s 21st sanctions package targets energy, trade, finance, and cryptocurrency sectors.
Diplomatic efforts toward peace were also on the agenda. Zelenskiy and EU leaders agreed that Europe must be represented at the negotiation table.
The Ukrainian side had previously stated that after opening the first negotiation chapter, the remaining five chapters are ready for official review and could be opened in the coming weeks.
