Brussels looks for ways around the veto
The European Union is preparing to start technical work on Ukraine and Moldova’s EU accession despite Hungary’s veto, according to the Financial Times. Officials in Brussels say the European Commission has proposed adjusting its own procedures to begin technical discussions in several negotiation clusters.
The matter will be discussed by EU leaders on October 1 in Copenhagen, with the participation of Ukrainian and Moldovan leaders the following day.
Kyiv: priority is to keep reforms moving
Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka emphasized that Ukraine is determined to continue the process:
“The final decision on accession requires unanimity and is deeply political. But in the meantime, we appreciate the offer from EU institutions and member states to continue technical work on clusters.”
He warned that interruptions in the negotiation process risk undermining reforms in Ukraine. While admitting that progress without Hungary’s approval is not ideal, Kachka said Kyiv is committed to avoiding a pause.
Moldova’s position
Moldovan officials confirmed that Chisinau is also negotiating with the European Commission and supports advancing technical work without formal approval to open or close clusters.
Frustration inside the EU
Diplomats told the FT that the stalemate is generating growing frustration in both Kyiv and Brussels:
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Ukrainian officials note that even frontline soldiers are aware of the lack of progress in Brussels.
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EU diplomats admit that morale is suffering and political reforms could stall if there is no recognition of progress.
Can the rules be changed?
European Council President Antonio Costa is reportedly exploring options to change the negotiation rules so that clusters could be opened by a majority vote, not unanimously. However, this proposal itself requires unanimous support — including from Hungary — making success unlikely.
Hungary has repeatedly signaled its opposition:
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In August, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó confirmed that Budapest would not lift its veto.
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President Zelensky earlier stressed that Hungary is the only EU member blocking accession clusters.
Background
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February 2022 – Ukraine applied for EU membership.
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June 2022 – EU granted Ukraine candidate status.
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November 2023 – European Commission recommended opening negotiations.
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June 2024 – EU formally launched accession talks.
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September 29, 2025 – EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos confirmed completion of Ukraine’s legislative screening.
What it means
While Hungary’s veto still blocks the formal opening of negotiation clusters, the EU’s push for technical talks signals a determination to keep Ukraine and Moldova moving forward on the accession track. For Kyiv, it is a way to sustain reforms and maintain momentum until a political breakthrough is reached.
