Ukraine and Moldova officially start the first phase of EU membership negotiations in Luxembourg. This symbolic step follows their candidate status granted in 2022 and overcomes previous blockages, marking a significant moment amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Ukraine and Moldova officially begin the first phase of EU membership negotiations in Luxembourg, a symbolic step following their 2022 candidate status. This move, initially blocked by Hungary, signifies progress on rule of law and democracy reforms.
Ukraine plans to increase military wages by one-third to 30,000 hryvnias and offer fixed-term contracts to boost recruitment. President Zelenskyy also aims to recruit more foreign volunteers. Meanwhile, Russia's Putin claims Ukrainian drone strikes aim to sow confusion and damage the economy, though he admits some economic damage.
Armenia intends to remain in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) for as long as possible, according to Sergey Melkonyan, a researcher at the Applied Policy Research Institute of Armenia. However, he suggests the country will eventually need to choose between the EAEU and the European Union.
Montenegro, a small Balkan nation, is pushing for EU membership by 2028, aiming to be the bloc's 28th member. Despite opening all negotiating chapters, significant reforms in rule of law and anti-corruption are still required, with all 27 current EU states needing to ratify its accession.
A controversial tourism development in Albania's protected Narta Lagoon area, linked to Jared Kushner, has sparked protests and international scrutiny. Environmentalists and the EU are concerned about transparency and ecological integrity, while PM Edi Rama insists the project is vital for Albania's "Champions League of global tourism."
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk advised Armenia to hold a referendum soon to decide its future in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) or potential accession to the European Union.
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu stated that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is unwilling to hold a referendum on the country's membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Shoigu commented on Pashinyan's remarks that a referendum would only occur after Yerevan applies to join the European Union, suggesting this indicates reluctance and potential future conflict with European patrons.
A peace deal between Russia and Ukraine hinges on EU membership for Ukraine, offering security guarantees and driving reforms. Despite challenges like agricultural competition and corruption, innovative solutions like 'reversed membership' are being considered to expedite Ukraine's integration.
Hungarian PM Péter Magyar expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on minority rights, a deal that could end Budapest's opposition to Ukraine's EU membership bid. Technical talks are progressing positively, with Hungary's 11-point plan on minority rights being a key focus.
Slovak President Peter Pellegrini stated that a peace agreement is a necessary condition for discussing Ukraine's potential membership in the European Union. He emphasized that ending the conflict diplomatically should be the primary prerequisite for any steps towards EU accession, warning against shortcuts.
Hungary has indicated it will likely drop its opposition to Ukraine's EU membership, paving the way for formal negotiations to begin on June 15. This shift follows a meeting on minority rights for Hungarians in Ukraine, with Kyiv providing assurances on an 11-point plan.
Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan stated that a resolution from four EAEU leaders supporting a referendum on Armenia's EU or EAEU membership is balanced. He clarified that such a referendum would only occur after Armenia officially applies for full EU membership.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan discussed Armenia's EAEU membership and a statement by four EAEU leaders. The Kremlin also noted plans for Putin's participation in the Russia-ASEAN summit and stated they don't pre-announce SPIEF guests.
Dmitry Medvedev likened Armenian PM Pashinyan's approach to EAEU/EU membership to Trotsky's slogan, accusing him of seeking benefits from both blocs. Putin urged Armenia to decide quickly.
Russia recalls ambassador to Armenia due to Yerevan's strengthening ties with the EU, threatening Armenia's membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) and economic consequences.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Armenia's preferential gas price from Russia is linked to its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). He indicated that leaving the EAEU could lead to market-based pricing for Armenian gas imports.
Ukraine's President Zelenskyy rejected German Chancellor Merz's proposal for a special EU associate membership, insisting on full membership. Merz suggested the status as a bridge given the ongoing war and lengthy accession process.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk proposed that Armenia hold a referendum on EU membership, stating that the EU is currently a military-political bloc against Russia. He emphasized that the decision is Armenia's internal affair.
DEİK is intensifying its efforts to accelerate Turkey's full EU membership agenda, aiming to increase public support from 50% to 75-80% by year-end. They have launched campaigns in the Financial Times and European newspapers, advocating for a "paradigm shift" and full membership by 2027.
Berliner Zeitung reports that Friedrich Merz's initiative for Ukraine to receive associate EU membership, including security guarantees, could draw Europe into a war with Russia, increasing political pressure on EU states in case of escalation.
Ukrainian drones struck the Syzran oil refinery in Russia, over 800km inside the country, causing a fire and killing two people. President Zelenskyy stated this is part of a broader plan targeting Russian oil revenues amid escalating attacks.
Ukraine's EU aspirations are clouded by corruption allegations. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposed an "associated member" status for Ukraine, contingent on addressing corruption. Andriy Yermak faces money laundering charges and posted bail after being ordered detained.
Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposes 'associate member' status for Ukraine, offering participation in EU Council meetings and sending non-voting MEPs and a commissioner. This pragmatic approach aims to integrate Kyiv politically and economically while acknowledging the lengthy accession process. Experts debate its symbolic value versus practical impact, with some questioning its legal coherence and special treatment compared to other candidate countries.
