Opening remarks
President, Honourable Members of the European Parliament,
Let me begin by extending my deepest gratitude to this House for its resolute commitment and continued support to Ukraine. Your steadfast voice has been a source of strength in Kyiv, a beacon of hope that Ukraines sacrifices are not in vain. Let me in particular thank Mr Gahler, the rapporteur on Ukraine, for his work in steering this Houses position forward with clarity and conviction.
Today, as we consider the Commissions enlargement reports for 2023 and 2024, and as we look ahead to the 2025 report already in preparation, we must remind ourselves what is truly at stake. Ukraines path to accession is a matter of survival, of sovereignty, and of long-term security – not only for Ukraine, but for Europe as a whole.
Ukraine has chosen this path freely and legitimately. It is what Ukrainians are fighting for – day after day, night after night, under continuous attack. Their choice is clear: a future anchored in peace, stability and prosperity, a future within the EU family. But it is not an easy road.
While heavy fighting continue, Russian brutal attacks on civilian targets has been intensified. On Sunday, Russia struck the Cabinet of Ministers building in Kyiv – for the first time, a direct attack on a seat of Ukraines government. That attack was not an accident. It was a message.
Russia does not want peace. Russia fears Ukraines European aspirations and dismisses democracy. That is why our response must be resolute and united.
Despite this brutal war, Ukraine has advanced steadily on reforms. The Commissions assessment shows progress across key areas, such as energy, customs, and foreign and security policy. This is a clear demonstration of determination. But accession is not only about ticking boxes. It is about transforming a state and society to guarantee the rule of law, the fight against corruption, the independence of institutions, and a functioning democracy.
This requires the whole of Ukraine: government, civil society, stakeholders, and particularly, the Rada – the Parliament of Ukraine. We saw in July how fragile progress can be. Attempts to undermine the independence of the anti-corruption bodies, NABU and SAPO, were deeply troubling. We were crystal clear: such moves are unacceptable. These institutions are the very foundations of the Ukraine that Ukrainians want to build – transparent, accountable, European.
On 31 July Ukraine corrected course. Key safeguards were restored. Other measures, including the appointment of the Head of the Economic Security Bureau, were unblocked. These are positive steps. Because rule of law is key EU value. And that calls for the vigilance of every actor, for the sake of Ukraines European future.
In this context, Commission assess Ukraine has met conditions to open Cluster 1, while we encourage them to continue work on implementation of roadmaps and especially on Action plan for minorities. At this crucial moment, a strong sign of support is more than symbolic – it is strategic and it is deserved. So I call the Council to decide on the opening of Cluster 1 without further delays. On the only legitimate ground: the merits of Ukraine.
Much has already been achieved – together. And together we must continue.
Honourable Members,
Ukraines EU accession is the most powerful guarantee of its security. Each reform consolidated, each cluster opened, each step forward is a step that locks Ukraine more firmly into our common European home. It is also a signal to Moscow: Ukraines European destiny is irreversible.
Let us not underestimate what this means. Ukrainians are defending not only their territory but also freedom, and democracy in Europe. The least we can do is match their courage with political determination.
We will continue to support Ukraine in advancing reforms, particularly in the rule of law. And we will continue to ensure that the accession process remains merit-based, credible, and predictable. And I count on this House to remain fully engaged – to encourage all political forces in Ukraine to work constructively, and to remind all Member States that the time for hesitation has passed.
Ukraines future is in Europe. Its people have chosen this path with courage, with sacrifice, and with hope. Now, it is for us – all of us – to be up to the circumstances, to help make that choice irreversible, and to ensure that one day soon, Ukraine takes its rightful place in this House.
Closing remarks
President, Honourable Members,
Todays debate has proven support to Ukraines path to the European Union. While challenges remain. What distinguishes Ukraine is its determination to confront these challenges, even while fighting for its very survival. We have seen that Ukraine is willing to take the difficult decisions needed to stay the course.
At the same time, we cannot forget: Ukraines accession is not only about reforms, it is also a strong security guarantee – for Ukraine and for Europe. Each step forward is a step that makes our Union safer, stronger, more complete.
This House, the Commission, and the Council must remain united. We must send a clear message: Ukraines European destiny is irreversible. Ukrainians are defending our shared values with their lives. The least we can do is rise to the occasion with political courage.
Ukraines future is in Europe. And together, we must ensure that future becomes reality.