Budanov on opening EU negotiations: Beginning work on foundation of our European life

The decision to open the first cluster of negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the European Union is a recognition of Ukrainians’ resilience and the irreversibility of their European choice.

Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov said this in a Telegram post, Ukrinform reports.

"The decision to open the first cluster of negotiations on Ukraine and Moldova’s accession to the EU is recognition of our resilience and the irreversibility of our European choice," he stated.

According to Budanov, the step is also a matter of security and the creation of a broader European security space.

"We are beginning work on the foundation of our European life. This is about justice, freedom, and fundamental rights – the framework that will make us part of a unified, strong, and secure European space," he said.

He stressed that the EU represents a strong economy, and that closer economic ties between member states strengthen mutual interests and European unity.

Budanov noted that Ukraine has proven its ability to fight for independence and is now proving its ability to integrate into a system that values freedom and human life.

He also warned that the accession path will involve difficult negotiations, requiring both internal transformation and protection of national interests.

"We must go through this path to become stronger and full members of the European community. Victory is forged not only on the battlefield, but also through systemic decisions that change history. We move forward," Budanov concluded.

As previously reported, the EU has opened the first negotiation cluster with Ukraine in Luxembourg, marking a key milestone in the accession process.