Changes from report parliamentary committee draft to plenary report

As rapporteur for this important initiative, I am pleased to present a report that reflects a permanent and steadfast strategic commitment to Ukraine by the European Union. This report is the first since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion on Ukraine and the granting of candidate status to Ukraine and the start of accession negotiations.

Ukraine is the single most important area of EU activity in the external relations realm. The ongoing war in Ukraine has already had profound influence on the EU and continues to do so. The outcome of the war is of existential importance for the EU. That is why the EU and its Member States have been providing consistent political, diplomatic, financial and military assistance to Ukraine. Given the current U-turn of the approach of the Trump Administration the responsibility of the EU is even greater.

I have prepared the draft report against the backdrop of the abovementioned geopolitical and security context. The text touches on the preparation of Ukraine to meet the requirements of EU membership, including compliance with the EU acquis. Further, I analyse the complex domestic reforms, which are conducted in the environment of an ongoing war. I highlight in particular the issue of democracy, the rule of law and the fight against corruption. Encouragement is given to build on the achievements of reforms in the energy, environment, sustainable development and connectivity sectors. Moreover I underscore the importance of regional cooperation and good neighbourly relations.

At the amendments stage additional aspects will improve and complement the draft report and incorporate latest developments in international negotiations, if any, and internal reform efforts.

In conclusion I reiterate the strong position that the European Commission opens negotiating clusters to advance Ukraine’s membership bid at the fastest pace. The successful conclusion of this process equates to showing leadership, resolve and vision and is a geostrategic investment in a united and strong Europe in an ever more volatile international environment.