Expert: Starting in June, Moldova may be decoupled from Ukraine in the EU accession process
The Republic of Moldova may be separated from Ukraine during the negotiation process for its accession to the European Union at the European Council Summit on June 26–27, particularly given the challenges Ukraine is currently facing. Despite geopolitical issues, Moldova has the advantage of a stable pro-European government and considerable public support for European integration, said journalist Dan Alexe in an interview for the show "In Context" on Moldova 1.
At the Summit on June 26-27, they might announce publicly that the Republic of Moldova can decouple from Ukraine in the accession negotiations. These negotiations, which should have theoretically begun, are now becoming a topic of increasing discussion in diplomatic groups. Moldova could begin negotiations soon, allowing it to progress independently without being tied to Ukraine's advancements.
Concerns are growing surrounding Ukraine's situation, as progress—both military and political—remains stagnant this year. Vladimir Putin's intentions are clear, and remaining "in the package" with Ukraine no longer seems justified. More countries, including France and, more recently, Germany, have reached a consensus that negotiations with Ukraine could be delayed if Viktor Orbán threatens to veto their initiation.
Our Brussels correspondent believes that starting negotiations would send a positive signal to Chișinău, especially with the September elections approaching.
Although EU enlargement is not currently in crisis, Europe is pleased with Moldova's progress. Nevertheless, Brussels must provide solid guarantees to Chișinău. This will allow the pro-European government led by Maia Sandu to demonstrate to both international partners and citizens that it is receiving genuine and consistent support. The institutional consolidation and maintenance of a European trajectory depend on the confidence of European leaders.
The journalist argues that, in light of the changing European security landscape, EU accession serves as a security shield for the Republic of Moldova in an uncertain geopolitical environment. Following the unpredictable tenure of former U.S. President Donald Trump, a collective effort is forming in Brussels to establish a distinct strategic military identity for Europe. European treaties obligate member states to defend one another, while Article 5 of the NATO Treaty states that member countries can come to the aid of any member under attack. In this context, it would be highly advantageous for the Republic of Moldova to advance toward EU accession, thereby securing a safety net amid a tense geopolitical climate.
Recently, Marta Kos, the European Commissioner for Enlargement, indicated that the EU is considering the possibility of continuing the accession process for the Republic of Moldova separately from that of Ukraine. This statement drew criticism from Olha Stefanishina, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, who emphasized that Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova are progressing together and that the authorities in Kyiv are engaged in negotiations with Hungary.
At present, the Republic of Moldova is one of nine countries with candidate status for EU membership. Accession negotiations with the EU were initiated in June 2024. Subsequently, the European Commission announced that both Ukraine and Moldova have fulfilled the necessary conditions to begin these accession negotiations.
