Addressing EU leaders during a summit in Brussels, Zelensky said Ukraine’s resistance to Russia’s invasion was central to the continent’s future and that rapid integration into the European Union would provide the strongest long-term guarantee for European stability and security.

“The future of Europe — free, united and of course in peace — is being decided in our defense,” Zelensky said in excerpts of his remarks released on social media.

The Ukrainian leader acknowledged that support for an accelerated accession process was not unanimous among EU member states. Hungary, one of Kyiv’s most vocal critics within the bloc, opposed language endorsing a faster membership track and secured its removal from the European Council’s final statement.

“The most important such step — I know that not everyone loves this — could be a fast-track path for Ukraine to join the EU,” Zelensky said.

The European Council’s statement welcomed the launch of accession negotiations with Ukraine and said it looked forward to opening additional negotiating chapters under the bloc’s merit-based enlargement framework. However, it omitted any commitment to speeding up the process.

Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar said on X that Budapest had succeeded in deleting references to accelerated accession from the summit conclusions.

“It wasn’t easy,” Magyar wrote.

The debate over Ukraine’s EU ambitions unfolded as Kyiv intensified its long-range military campaign against Russia. Earlier on Thursday, Ukrainian drones struck targets deep inside Russian territory, including an oil refinery in Moscow, in one of the latest attacks aimed at critical infrastructure.

Zelensky cited Ukraine’s ability to conduct long-range strikes as evidence of its military capabilities during meetings this week with U.S. President Donald Trump and other Group of Seven leaders in France.

In separate comments posted on Telegram, Zelensky reiterated Kyiv’s goal of ending the war before the end of 2026, while acknowledging the challenges of negotiating with Moscow.

“Of course, we want to end this war before winter — through diplomacy and by putting pressure on Russia. But we understand who we’re dealing with,” he said.

Referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky said Ukraine needed continued military and energy support should the conflict continue through another winter. He called for additional air-defense missiles, fuel supplies, energy equipment and a package of at least 300 missiles.

The Ukrainian president also urged European partners to strengthen financial support for Kyiv’s armed forces and called for the release of 6 billion euros from the European Peace Facility, an EU mechanism designed to support international security and defense efforts.

EU ambassadors agreed last week to advance membership negotiations with both Ukraine and Moldova, opening discussions on the first of six policy and legal clusters that candidate countries must complete before joining the bloc.

Ukraine’s latest drone attacks came amid escalating exchanges between Kyiv and Moscow. Ukrainian officials described the strike on Moscow’s refinery as retaliation for an attack that damaged a nearly 1,000-year-old monastery, an allegation Russia has denied.

Zelensky maintained that Ukraine remained open to direct talks with Putin but urged European governments to sustain sanctions pressure and financial assistance.

“Europe has to be engaged for us to have a strong position, to commit fully on sanctions without loopholes, on confiscation without exceptions and on funding Ukraine,” he said.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said after Thursday’s attacks that Moscow would continue carrying out what he described as massive coordinated strikes against Ukrainian targets on a regular basis.

The snap election was triggered after parliament failed to resolve a months-long dispute over the election of a new president, leading to the legislature’s dissolution in April and extending a period of political uncertainty in Europe’s youngest nation.

Analysts expect Kurti’s Vetevendosje movement to emerge as the largest party once again, although its ability to translate electoral success into effective governance remains uncertain. Even if it secures another victory, the party is expected to require cooperation from rivals to obtain the two-thirds parliamentary majority necessary to elect a president and end the institutional stalemate.

Kosovo has spent much of the past year without a fully operational government as fragmented political forces repeatedly failed to agree on key leadership appointments. The inability to elect first a parliamentary speaker and later a head of state has deepened concerns about governance and reform implementation.

Kurti’s Vetevendosje party won 51.1% of the vote in the December election, improving on its 42% result in February 2025. However, the party was unable to secure support from opposition groups for a presidential candidate, resulting in another collapse of the political process.

The European Union has repeatedly urged Kosovo’s political leaders to establish stable institutions capable of advancing reforms required for eventual membership in the bloc. Political instability has raised concerns in Brussels about the pace of governance, judicial and economic reforms.

Since first taking power in 2021, Vetevendosje has pursued a nationalist and welfare-oriented agenda while maintaining Kosovo’s broadly pro-Western foreign policy orientation. The party has also resisted making additional concessions in negotiations with Serbia, which continues to reject Kosovo’s 2008 declaration of independence and remains at odds with Pristina over a range of political and security issues.

According to Kosovo’s election commission, more than 900 candidates from 17 political parties and three coalition groups are contesting seats in the 120-member parliament.

More than 2.1 million voters are registered to cast ballots, a figure exceeding Kosovo’s resident population of roughly 1.6 million because of a large diaspora community concentrated mainly in Western Europe. The diaspora has traditionally been an important source of support for Kurti and his party.

The election is being closely watched by European officials and regional observers seeking signs that Kosovo can overcome repeated political deadlocks and restore institutional stability after more than a year of recurring electoral contests.

The report confirms that Ukraine is confidently advancing toward full European Union membership, marking a historic step in the nation’s integration into the European family.

In his remarks, President Zelenskiy emphasized that the findings demonstrate Ukraine’s strong and steady movement toward meeting EU standards.

He said the country is ready to open the first three negotiation clusters, a key step in the formal accession process, reflecting Ukraine’s dedication to governance, transparency, and democratic values.

The president underscored that this achievement is not just a milestone for Ukraine but a victory for the entire European community.

He called on the EU to take decisive action to remove artificial barriers that stand in the way of progress, urging for unity and mutual support in building a stronger, more resilient Europe.

European leaders, including European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas, and EU

Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, met with Zelenskiy in Kyiv to reaffirm the EU’s continued commitment to Ukraine.
Their meeting symbolized solidarity, partnership, and the shared belief that Ukraine’s future lies firmly within the European Union.

Zelenskiy praised the European Commission for recognizing Ukraine’s reforms, which include progress in anti-corruption measures, judicial independence, and economic modernization.

He noted that despite the ongoing challenges posed by Russia’s invasion, Ukraine has not deviated from its reform agenda or its vision of democratic governance.

The European Union has consistently acknowledged Ukraine’s courage and resilience under extraordinary circumstances.

By pushing forward with reforms in the middle of conflict, Ukraine has demonstrated the strength and unity of its people, inspiring admiration and respect across the continent.

According to political analysts, the latest EU report reinforces Ukraine’s credibility as a candidate country. It confirms that the country has met key benchmarks in the rule of law, economic stability, and institutional transparency — essential pillars for EU membership.

This steady progress reflects a nation determined to transform itself and contribute meaningfully to Europe’s collective future.

For many Ukrainians, the European dream represents more than political alignment — it is a symbol of freedom, opportunity, and long-term peace.

Citizens across the country have embraced the vision of a modern, democratic Ukraine deeply integrated with its European partners.
Public support for EU membership remains strong, reflecting national unity in the face of adversity.

European officials have also commended Ukraine’s progress in aligning its legislation with EU standards. From environmental protection to digital transformation, Ukraine continues to implement reforms that enhance its competitiveness and resilience.

These steps ensure that the country is well-prepared to contribute to Europe’s innovation-driven and sustainable future.

Zelenskiy’s message of confidence and determination has resonated across the continent. He reaffirmed that Ukraine’s European path is not just a political ambition but a moral commitment to uphold the principles of democracy, justice, and human rights.

His words echo the aspirations of millions who believe in a united and prosperous Europe.

The EU’s encouragement and recognition have provided a new wave of motivation for Ukrainian institutions and civil society.

Together, they are working to accelerate reform, strengthen institutions, and build partnerships that reflect shared values and mutual trust. The process may be long, but the direction is clear — Ukraine is on a path of transformation and progress.

As Zelenskiy stated, Ukraine’s future is European, and its progress represents hope for a stronger, more integrated continent. The European Commission’s report serves as a beacon of encouragement for nations striving toward reform, unity, and shared prosperity.

In every step forward, Ukraine continues to prove that determination, courage, and faith in democratic values can shape the future of Europe.

This declaration comes as the EU continues to praise the steady progress made by Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova, countries that are showing strong commitment to democratic values, governance reforms, and European integration.

Marta Kos, the EU’s enlargement commissioner, expressed confidence in the future of a broader European community.

She emphasized that the Union must prepare itself for new members by strengthening institutions, improving administrative capacity, and fostering deeper unity among existing member states.

Her statement reflects growing enthusiasm in Brussels about building a stronger and more resilient Europe.

Montenegro, with its population of around 600,000, was highlighted as the leading candidate among current applicants.

The country’s dedication to judicial reform, transparency, and rule of law has earned widespread praise from EU officials and observers.
Its consistent efforts show that small nations can play a major role in shaping Europe’s collective future.

Albania also received special recognition for what the commissioner called “unprecedented progress.”
The country has advanced rapidly in governance reforms, anti-corruption measures, and alignment with EU economic standards.Albania’s journey demonstrates that consistent reform, citizen engagement, and visionary leadership can transform nations and bring them closer to European ideals.

Moldova was applauded for its determination and speed in implementing reforms despite facing external pressures and economic challenges.

Its accelerated progress, even under difficult regional circumstances, highlights the country’s commitment to democracy and European cooperation.

Observers say that Moldova’s experience serves as a beacon for other nations seeking to align with the EU.

Ukraine’s progress was described as exceptional, given its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression.

Despite conflict, the nation has continued to move forward on key reforms related to governance, transparency, and anti-corruption efforts

EU leaders commended Ukraine’s resilience and dedication, calling its progress a symbol of courage and hope for all of Europe.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy welcomed the encouraging assessment, noting that Ukraine remains steadfast in its European journey.

He called on the EU to take decisive action to overcome political barriers, emphasizing that unity and solidarity are the foundations of a peaceful and prosperous Europe. His message resonated across the continent as a reminder of Europe’s shared destiny.

The commissioner also acknowledged that Serbia and Georgia face challenges that have slowed their reform pace.

However, she reaffirmed that the door to EU membership remains open to all nations committed to democratic transformation and the rule of law.

This balanced approach underscores the EU’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and long-term partnership.

As Europe looks ahead, the spirit of expansion carries broader meaning beyond borders and treaties. It represents a renewed belief in cooperation, shared prosperity, and the values that unite rather than divide.

A larger EU would enhance stability, strengthen the single market, and amplify Europe’s voice on the global stage.

Experts say that enlargement will also boost innovation, energy cooperation, and cross-border trade.

New members bring cultural diversity, fresh perspectives, and economic vitality, contributing to Europe’s growth and global competitiveness.

For millions across the continent, EU expansion is not just a policy goal — it is a vision of hope and shared progress.

The European Union’s commitment to enlargement reflects its core values of democracy, inclusivity, and solidarity. By welcoming new members, the EU continues its mission to create a continent of peace, prosperity, and partnership.

With Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova leading the way, the dream of a united Europe has never felt closer or more attainable.