STORY
The European Parliament has debated and voted on the progress of Ukraine, Moldova and Serbia towards European Union membership. The discussions examined reforms, democratic standards and the next stages of accession negotiations.
MEPs have broadly supported the European ambitions of Ukraine and Moldova while continuing to press both countries to meet legal and institutional requirements. Serbia has faced closer scrutiny over the rule of law, media freedom and its relationship with Russia.
Enlargement has become a central strategic issue for the EU following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Any new member must satisfy the accession criteria and secure the unanimous approval of existing member states.