EU Leaders Prepare for Key Expansion Summit and Ukraine’s Future in the Union
On November 4th, a crucial summit in Brussels will focus on the European Union’s expansion plans.
Leaders from EU member states and candidate countries, including Ukraine, Moldova, and Serbia, will gather to discuss the prospects of accession and further integration into the bloc.
This event marks a significant milestone in the EU’s enlargement policy, as discussions will revolve around reforms and increased influence on the eastern and southeastern borders.
European Council President António Costa has confirmed his attendance, along with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, as well as Prime Ministers Edi Rama of Albania, Milo Đukanović of Montenegro, and Dimitar Kovačevski of North Macedonia.
The summit will also host European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi.
Central to the talks will be new rules regarding EU membership, aimed at accelerating Ukraine’s accession process.
Leaders will also share their perspectives on the benefits of expansion, including access to new markets, increased political influence, and the promotion of democracy and shared values across the continent.
This summit coincides with the European Commission’s annual progress report on candidate countries.
Recent surveys show that over 56% of EU citizens support expansion, with particularly strong backing among young Europeans.
However, the absence of mechanisms to override Hungary’s veto, along with the requirement for unanimous approval, means that opening accession negotiations with Ukraine may only happen after Hungary’s parliamentary elections in April 2026, should Orbán’s party lose its majority.