Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine expects significant progress in its European Union membership bid after completing the reforms required for the next phase of accession talks.

Speaking in his nightly address on Thursday, Zelenskyy said Kyiv had adhered to its commitments and was now awaiting action from Brussels.

“We have done our part of the work. The next step is up to the European Union,” he said.

Talks Expected to Move Forward

The comments came a day after Cyprus, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, announced preparations to open negotiations on the first cluster of accession chapters with Ukraine and neighbouring Moldova.

The initial negotiating cluster focuses on rule of law, democratic governance and institutional standards.

According to reports, the first formal round of negotiations could begin as early as 15 June during an intergovernmental conference in Luxembourg.

Hungary Obstacle Eases

Zelenskyy also pointed to recent developments in Hungary, which had previously blocked progress on Ukraine’s membership path.

Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar recently announced an agreement with Kyiv regarding the rights of Ukraine’s ethnic Hungarian minority.

The issue had long been a sticking point in relations between the two countries and a major obstacle to Hungary’s support for Ukraine’s EU ambitions.

Zelenskyy suggested the agreement had improved prospects for moving negotiations forward.

Ukraine’s Long-Term European Goal

Ukraine was granted EU candidate status alongside Moldova in 2022 following Russia’s full-scale invasion.

For Kyiv, EU membership is viewed not only as an economic and political objective but also as a strategic anchor to Europe while the country continues to fight Russia’s invasion.

Zelenskyy said Ukrainian officials remain in daily contact with European counterparts on accession issues, while also discussing sanctions on Russia, air defence cooperation and joint weapons production.

Moldova Also Moves Forward

Moldova is expected to advance alongside Ukraine in the accession process.

The country has accelerated reforms in recent years and is seeking closer integration with Europe amid growing regional security concerns and pressure from Russia.

EU officials continue to describe enlargement in Eastern Europe as a strategic priority aimed at strengthening stability, democratic governance and economic integration across the region.

(with inputs from Reuters)