On October 30, 2024, the European Commission announced its intention to advance entry negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova by 2025, emphasizing the urgency posed by Russia's actions. This statement came during an annual review of the EU enlargement process, which highlighted the stalled progress of Georgia’s accession due to its ruling party’s alignment with Russian interests.
Ukraine and Moldova initiated their EU accession negotiations in June 2022, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Commission reported that the assessment of compliance with EU laws in both countries is progressing well. Actual negotiations on 35 subjects, including taxation and environmental policy, can begin once the screening is complete.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell remarked on Ukraine's dual struggle against the ongoing war and the need for reforms to meet EU standards, stating, “Ukrainians are fighting two battles at the same time.” He assured continued support for Ukraine's reform efforts.
Moldova's recent referendum to join the EU faced allegations of Russian interference, yet the enlargement commissioner acknowledged significant progress in the country’s recovery from corruption. Both Kyiv and Chisinau submitted their EU applications in response to the geopolitical shifts caused by the Russian invasion.
Georgia received candidate status in December 2022, but its negotiations remain frozen due to controversial legislation perceived as aligning with Russian policies. Borrell emphasized that Georgia must repeal this law to re-engage in the EU accession process.
The Commission's report underscored the existential threat posed by Russia, stating that countries cannot maintain ties with Moscow if they aspire to join the EU. Borrell warned Serbia about the necessity of aligning its foreign policy with that of the EU to avoid jeopardizing its membership prospects.
Turkey remains a candidate for EU membership, but its accession talks have stalled since 2016 amid political repression.