In the face of ongoing aggression from Russia, Ukraine has exemplified remarkable resilience and an unwavering commitment to its European aspirations. Since applying for EU membership on 28 February 2022, Ukraine has made significant strides on its path toward integration with the European Union.
In November 2023, the European Commission recommended that Ukraine's EU membership application move forward, leading the European Council to decide in December 2023 to open accession negotiations. By June 2024, after completing the four remaining steps outlined in the Commission's recommendations, the Council adopted a negotiating framework. This milestone culminated in the first Intergovernmental Conference, marking the formal opening of accession negotiations on 25 June 2024.
The EU-Ukraine relationship has been reinforced through the Association Agreement, which includes a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. Regular political and economic dialogues continue under this framework, with notable events such as the EU-Ukraine Association Council meeting in March 2023. In June 2024, joint security commitments were signed, underscoring the interconnectedness of security, resilience, and Ukraine's EU accession process. Ukraine has pledged to pursue reforms aligned with its EU path, particularly in the security, defense, and intelligence sectors.
Since the onset of Russian aggression, the EU and its Member States have mobilized nearly EUR 122 billion in support for Ukraine and its people. The Ukraine Facility, which came into force on 1 March 2024, aims to provide up to EUR 50 billion in predictable and flexible support for 2024-2027, facilitating Ukraine’s recovery, reconstruction, and modernization. Already, EUR 12.4 billion has been disbursed, with further funds contingent upon fulfilling conditions outlined in the Ukraine Plan, which prioritizes reform and investment agendas for the country.
Additionally, the Ukraine Donor Platform, previously known as the Multi-agency Donor Coordination Platform, has been established to coordinate financial support across various sources, addressing both immediate financing needs and long-term economic recovery objectives.
The EU remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders. Ukraine continues to align closely with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP).
As we look ahead, Ukraine’s journey towards EU membership serves as a testament to its resilience and determination, driven by its European dream, which has cost Ukrainians so much blood and sacrifice...
Source: 2024 Communication on EU enlargement policy (Brussels, 30.10.2024, SWD(2024) 699 final)
