EU to Open Ukraine Membership Talks Next Week Amid Ongoing War with Russia

The European Union announced that it will start formal membership negotiations with Ukraine next week. The decision was made despite the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. EU leaders said the talks reflect Kyiv’s long‑term European aspirations. The move follows months of diplomatic support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. Officials noted that the conflict will not halt the accession process. The talks will cover political, economic and security criteria. Ukraine’s government welcomed the step as a sign of solid EU backing. Observers will watch how the war’s trajectory influences the negotiation timeline.