“As for joining the EU, I would not link it to the war, but
rather say that much depends on the ability of Ukrainian government to meet the
requirements,” Hopko said.
“And we demonstrated this ability when we submitted a
questionnaire before becoming a candidate, then fulfilled seven criteria.”
According to the expert, number of tasks for Ukraine has
increased “exponentially” and it is a difficult and painstaking work that
requires technical concentration and is less public.
“If we complete it, I don’t see any reasons why Ukraine can
be denied from joining the EU,” Hopko added.
“Although some countries may somehow link it to the end of
the war, but when we have a positive conclusion from the European Commission
that the criteria are met, then the accession agreement can be signed, even if
the war goes on.”
Ukraine’s accession to the EU
The European Commission recommended starting accession talks
for Ukraine and Moldova on Nov. 8, 2023. The European Council supported the
start of negotiations on Ukraine’s EU membership with 26 votes on Dec. 14.
Ukraine could join the European Union in 2030, European
Council President Charles Michel has said.
Ukraine could start negotiations on joining the European
Union as early as June, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on April
30.
On June 7, permanent representatives of EU member states
failed to make a decision on starting EU accession talks for Ukraine, as
recommended by the European Commission, due to objections from Hungary.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced
on June 25 that the EU is officially launching accession talks with Ukraine and
Moldova.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry noted that Ukraine shown “unprecedented
dynamics in the adoption and implementation of key reforms.” It also added that
the start of negotiations on EU accession is “a new stage in Ukrainian history.”
Deputy Prime Minister for Integration Olha Stefanyshyna said
that from now on, Ukraine will start bilateral meetings on each of the upcoming
negotiating chapters. This process will last until the end of 2024.
EU Ambassador to Ukraine Catherine Mathernova said that 2030 is a “very realistic date” for the end of the accession negotiations.