Ukraine's EU integration: first negotiation cluster may open in June, with remaining clusters in July
According to the report, on June 15 two intergovernmental conferences with Ukraine and Moldova will take place, marking the opening of the first negotiating cluster titled "Fundamentals" for both countries. The Commissioner described the day as a "mega-day, or mega-Monday for the enlargement process."
She stressed that June 15 will be an important milestone in Ukraine's and Moldova's path toward EU membership after they were granted candidate status in 2023. According to her, opening the first cluster will represent a significant step forward.
"First of all, we will have the first major step for Ukraine and Moldova after they received candidate status in 2023. So finally, finally, we will be able to open the first cluster for both countries. Why? Because they have fulfilled their commitments, and it is truly time for us to do this," the Commissioner said.
At the same time, Marta Kos noted that if Ukraine and Moldova meet their obligations, the European Union should also ensure progress in the negotiation process. In this context, she expressed expectations that further steps could follow in July.
"That is why I expect that in July we will open all the remaining five clusters. And that is also good news," said Marta Kos.
The "Fundamentals" cluster covers issues such as the rule of law and fundamental rights, the functioning of democratic institutions, public administration reform, and economic criteria. Under EU rules, no other negotiation cluster can be finally closed without substantial progress in this area.
The negotiation process begins with the "Fundamentals" cluster, which remains open until the completion of all stages of the EU accession path. In total, the talks include six thematic clusters covering 33 negotiation chapters.
It is worth recalling that the EU is holding intergovernmental conferences with Ukraine and Moldova on June 15, during which the first "Fundamentals" cluster is officially opened, marking the start of substantive accession negotiations.
As reported by Rubryka, on September 30, 2025, Ukraine together with the European Commission completed bilateral screening meetings within the framework of the official assessment of the alignment of Ukrainian legislation with the EU acquis (EU law).
On March 17, 2026, the European Union handed Ukraine the final conditions for accession, covering three key negotiation clusters and completing the process of defining the requirements.
It should also be noted that the European Commission is considering introducing a two-stage model of EU accession. This approach could allow Ukraine to join the bloc significantly faster, but with limited powers in the initial stage.
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15 of June 2026
