Hungary blocks EU procedural step for Ukraine and Moldova accession
Hungary prevented EU experts from advancing the final two enlargement clusters for Ukraine and Moldova, halting the next procedural step.
On Oct. 20, EU technical experts convened to decide on a procedural action that would open the last two enlargement clusters—agriculture, environment and transport—for Ukraine and Moldova, bringing both countries closer to EU membership. Hungary exercised its veto, blocking the step despite the other 26 member states' support, and offered no fresh justification, merely echoing its previous position. Diplomats noted that Hungary’s objection cannot be linked to Ukraine’s recent law on education rights for its Hungarian-speaking minority.
The impasse is seen as a short-term move to avoid domestic criticism of being “soft” on Ukraine. The issue will be revisited at subsequent enlargement working party meetings in Brussels, with senior officials expecting the clusters to be formally opened in December. Advancing the accession bids remains a priority for the Irish EU Council Presidency.
Why it matters
The blockage delays Ukraine and Moldova’s EU accession progress, affecting reforms and regional integration.
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