Phoenix 24
External-relations talks mark another step toward membership.
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM — July 2026. European Union member states have agreed to advance a new stage in the accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. The decision clears the way for the formal opening of Cluster Six, focused on external relations. An intergovernmental conference is expected to formalize the step on July 14.
The cluster covers two principal areas: external trade relations and alignment with the EU’s foreign, security and defense policies. Kyiv and Chișinău will be required to bring their legislation, international commitments and diplomatic positions closer to European standards. Progress will be continuously evaluated before any chapter can be provisionally closed.
The breakthrough required unanimous approval from all 27 member states. Hungary, which had previously slowed Ukraine’s accession process, lifted its reservation for this specific cluster. The Irish presidency of the Council adopted a gradual strategy, seeking to advance negotiations one cluster at a time rather than demanding the simultaneous opening of all remaining areas.
Ukraine and Moldova formally opened the Fundamentals cluster on June 15. That section includes the rule of law, judicial independence, democratic institutions, public administration and economic criteria. Four additional clusters remain to be opened, covering the internal market, competitiveness, environmental connectivity, agriculture and cohesion.
Opening negotiations does not guarantee membership or establish a final accession date. Both candidates must complete extensive reforms, meet EU standards and secure unanimous political approval at every decisive stage. The latest agreement nevertheless preserves momentum for two countries that consider European integration central to their security and democratic future.
The door has opened further—but the path to membership remains demanding.