Zelenskyy hails EU accession talks, urges more pressure on Russia

International

CHIȘINĂU, Moldova — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has welcomed the opening of the first cluster in accession negotiations for Ukraine and Moldova to join the European Union, describing it as “a clear message that Europe’s progress cannot be stopped.”

Addressing the EU Intergovernmental Conference via videoconferencing, Zelenskyy said Ukraine and Moldova have taken important steps together and emphasized the symbolism of addressing Europe from Chișinău en route to the G7 Summit in France. “Our neighborhood with Moldova is strong. We support each other, and we are moving toward the EU together – and we will get there together,” he declared.

Zelenskyy urged Europe to accelerate the accession process as a strong response to Russia’s aggression. “Ukraine has earned the right to move faster. We are ready for the opening of all clusters. Everyone in Europe knows this. Let us move forward without delay,” he said.

Turning to the war, Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine had offered Russian President Vladimir Putin opportunities to meet “anywhere real decisions to end the war could be made,” but said Putin refused.

He noted discussions with the U.S. and France about a possible meeting around the G7, and even with President Trump about hosting talks in the U.S., but stressed that Russia’s rejection would require “additional pressure from the international community.”

Zelenskyy concluded by calling Europe’s progress and Ukraine’s EU path a powerful answer to Russia’s aggression, insisting that Ukraine is prepared for the next stages of accession.