Historic milestone on the path to the EU
Ukraine has completed the legislative screening process for compliance with EU law — a key stage in the country’s accession path. This was announced by EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, who is on a three-day visit to Ukraine.
“Today marks an important step on Ukraine's path to the EU. In the most difficult conditions, Ukraine has completed the screening process of all its legislation in record time, laying the foundations for its European future. Now we need to maintain the momentum for reforms,” Kos wrote on X.
According to her, the screening was completed in less than a year, covering over 100,000 pages of legislation.
What’s next
Kos emphasized that the next step is the opening of negotiations on the first cluster, once Ukraine receives the “green light” from the Council of the European Union.
On October 1, in Kyiv, the Commissioner will discuss the screening results with the leadership of Ukraine, government representatives, parliament, and anti-corruption institutions. The focus will be on reforms related to:
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the rule of law,
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the fight against corruption,
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and strengthening the independence of democratic institutions.
Background: Ukraine’s EU journey
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February 28, 2022 – President Volodymyr Zelensky signed Ukraine’s application for EU membership under a special procedure.
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June 23, 2022 – The European Council granted Ukraine candidate status.
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November 8, 2023 – The European Commission recommended starting accession negotiations.
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June 25, 2024 – Negotiations officially began in Luxembourg after approval by the Council of the EU.
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September 29 – October 1, 2025 – EU Commissioner Kos visits Ukraine, confirming the completion of legislative screening.
Why this matters
The screening process is a technical and political prerequisite for EU enlargement, ensuring that Ukraine’s laws align with the Copenhagen criteria and the EU acquis communautaire. Its rapid completion demonstrates Kyiv’s commitment to reforms, even under wartime conditions, and paves the way for full-fledged accession talks.
