The European Union has formally agreed to begin membership negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, starting June 25 in Luxembourg, under Belgium's current EU presidency. This move symbolizes strong support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia and aligns with the EU's commitment to Western integration. However, concerns have arisen about potential delays in the accession process when Hungary, under Viktor Orbán, assumes the EU presidency on July 1. Hungarian officials have indicated they may deprioritize Ukraine's membership talks, focusing instead on other candidates like Serbia and Montenegro. The Kremlin has acknowledged Moldova's sovereign right to join the EU but emphasized that many Moldovans still favor closer ties with Russia. Moldova continues to accuse Russia of meddling in its affairs, reflecting the broader geopolitical tensions in the region.