Over the past year, Ukraine has strengthened its position and taken a huge step toward the EU — von der Leyen

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the opening of the first round of negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the EU “a huge step forward” thanks to the country’s significant progress on reforms. 

She emphasized that Ukraine is currently in a much stronger position compared to last year, as it is holding the front line, regaining some territory, striking strategic targets deep inside Russia, and is one of the world leaders in the production of advanced military equipment. 

According to her, the opening of this cluster is part of a broader process of “anchoring Ukraine in Europe,” and now the EU must also do its part. The head of the European Commission added that at the same time, Russia is increasingly feeling the pressure of sanctions that are hitting hard, which is why Putin’s war economy has become weaker than ever against the backdrop of continued unwavering European support for Ukraine.

Von der Leyen made these remarks at a press conference ahead of the G7 summit in Evian, according to Ukrinform.

The first round of negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the European Union has officially begun. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called this decision an important political and moral support for the country. According to him, Ukraine is fulfilling all necessary conditions, and the EU is honoring its commitments.