Antonio Costa, the President of the European Council, stated on Thursday, February 19, that the European Union wants to start “as soon as possible” negotiations regarding Ukraine’s accession, without committing to a date, reports AFP.
“We want to be able to officially open the negotiations as soon as possible and to progress in the enlargement process,” Costa declared during a press conference in Oslo, where he was visiting, according to the international agency, quoted by Agerpres.
The American plan to end the war in Ukraine envisages Kiev’s entry into the EU from January 2027, a timeline generally considered unrealistic by experts.
“I can’t say if it will be in 2027, not even in 2026 or later, but what is important is not to lose momentum,” he added.
Ukraine is implementing the necessary reforms to become a full member of the European Union
The war triggered by Russia in Ukraine will enter its fifth year next Tuesday, complicating the country’s hopes for rapid integration.
“What is especially impressive is that Ukraine, despite the terrible war it is facing, is implementing the necessary reforms to become a full member of the European Union,” Costa emphasized.
When asked about the possibility of offering a “light” accession to Kiev, Costa replied:
“There are rules for the accession process,” he reminded.
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