Press release - Enlargement: MEPs welcome reform efforts by Ukraine amid ongoing war

Assessing Ukraine’s progress on reforms relating to its EU membership application process, the European Parliament welcomed the opening of the first fundamental cluster of accession negotiations in June 2026 and hoped that subsequent clusters would follow soon.

With 460 votes in favour, 136 against, and 59 abstentions, the Parliament asked for a constructive discussion on how to advance Ukraine’s European integration, while also taking the EU’s strategic interests into account. EU member states should consider the dynamics in accession countries, including Russia’s attempts to undermine public support for EU membership, and work on advancing the future security of Ukraine and the European continent, stress MEPs.

Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, rule of law

The report commends Ukraine’s extraordinary efforts to strengthen its democratic institutions and safeguard the separation of powers during wartime. MEPs welcome Ukraine’s progress on judicial reform and the fight against corruption while calling for continued reform in these critical areas. They point out that a strong rule of law foundation will enable transparency and accountability in the reconstruction and economic recovery processes, improving the investment climate and international partners’ trust.

On the issue of future elections, the text emphasises the importance of allowing sufficient time to ensure the necessary standards and conditions for free and fair elections are met once martial law is lifted. MEPs reject the US administration’s pressure on Ukraine to hold elections with Russia’s war still ongoing.

Increase the pressure on Russia

Welcoming the G7 leaders’ June 2026 statement on Ukraine, MEPs underline the need to support the country’s momentum on the battlefield and increase the pressure on the Russian war economy.

Welcoming the first instalment of €3.2 billion under the Ukraine Support Loan, MEPs ask for predictable EU multiannual financial support for Ukraine to help the country cover its recovery and defence expenses without yearly uncertainty.

Importance of good neighbourly relations

Regarding the renaming of an elite military unit of the Ukrainian Armed Forces after the heroes of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), MEPs regret the disregard for Polish sensitivities and grief and consider that this decision undermines neighbourly relations, calling for de-escalation and renewed efforts in good faith towards reconciliation.

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“Since Ukraine’s European path started in 2014, the country has changed profoundly for the better. Russia’s war of aggression has even accelerated this process. A lot has still to be done, for instance to meet the requirements of the fundamentals cluster. Continuation of judicial reforms and the unhindered work of the anti-corruption institutions remain key to advancing along the accession path and meeting citizens’ expectations”, said rapporteur Michael Gahler (EPP, Germany).