President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held a telephone conversation focused on the next procedural steps that will move Ukraine from candidate status to full European Union membership.
Key points from the call
– Zelensky emphasized that Kyiv’s top priority is the formal launch of cluster-by-cluster accession negotiations and the removal of any remaining obstacles.
– Von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s “unwavering support” for Ukraine’s European future and welcomed the Verkhovna Rada’s recent ratification of the U.S.–Ukraine Economic Partnership Agreement, calling it a strong signal for investors.
– Both leaders underlined the importance of securing an “unconditional, genuine, and at least thirty-day cease-fire” as a foundation for lasting peace efforts, with Zelensky thanking the EU for backing this stance.
– Diplomatic coordination will intensify between Kyiv, Washington, and Brussels to maintain pressure on Moscow and to align reconstruction financing with EU pre-accession reform benchmarks.
Why the opening of clusters matters
The European Commission assesses candidate countries in thematic “clusters” that cover the entire acquis communautaire, from justice and rule of law to energy and the internal market. Opening these clusters would:
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Set clear reform timetables and funding opportunities.
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Provide EU member states with measurable milestones for approving future stages.
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Strengthen investor confidence by anchoring Ukraine’s legal environment to EU standards.
Next steps on the EU track
• The Commission is expected to deliver its next progress report on Ukraine’s reforms by autumn 2025.
• Kyiv aims to complete the screening phase and present an updated National Programme for Adoption of the Acquis in early 2026.
• Member-state ambassadors will debate a formal mandate for accession talks once political conditions—including a sustained cease-fire—are judged satisfactory.
