The opening of the first negotiation cluster regarding Ukraine's accession to the European Union is an important step on the path to membership, and the remaining clusters could be opened in the coming weeks. This was stated by Taras Kachka, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine, as reported by UNN.
According to the official, the launch of negotiations on the fundamental cluster is a decisive stage in Ukraine's European integration process.
The opening of the fundamental cluster today is an important step on the path to accession. This corresponds to the current methodology of the negotiation process and is the strongest possible decision that can be made within this procedure. We expect that the next steps will also be taken without delay, as Ukraine is ready to open other negotiation clusters
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that accelerating the European integration process is particularly important against the backdrop of Russian aggression.
We need this in view of the escalation demonstrated by Russia. That is why Ukraine's rapid progress toward EU membership is of strategic importance
Kachka also emphasized that Ukraine and the European Union are already actively deepening cooperation in the field of security and defense.
Ukraine and the EU are doing a lot together in the defense sector today. This includes financial support, assistance in finding air defense systems and missiles to protect our cities, joint production of weapons, the creation of joint ventures in the defense industry, and many other areas of cooperation
According to the government official, Russia's aggression against Ukraine is part of Moscow's broader anti-European policy.
We know that Russia is an aggressor not only toward Ukraine but also toward Europe. Threats against European states are a constant component of Russian policy. That is why we must be united and make the most of our common capabilities
Answering a question regarding the timing for opening other negotiation clusters, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that all necessary documents have already been prepared.
All five packages of negotiation clusters are ready for formal consideration. This requires only a few working days and discussion among member states. Therefore, this issue can be resolved within a timeframe of one week to one month. But it is definitely a matter of weeks