EU envoys greenlight first phase of membership talks for Ukraine and Moldova

Ambassadors from the European Union's 27 countries agreed on Friday to advance membership talks with Ukraine

and ​Moldova, with the first phase of negotiations set to begin on ‌Monday.

"Member States have given the green light to start EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova.

The opening of the first chapters on democracy, justice and the rule of law underlines both countries' reform efforts and their commitment to European values. All while pushing back against Russia's aggression, threats and intimidation.

Enlargement is our strongest geopolitical tool, and Ukraine and Moldova belong in Europe" the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola said in an X post.