The European Union officially opened accession negotiations with Ukraine on Monday in Luxembourg.
Representatives from both sides began evening talks on the first thematic block covering the justice system, fundamental values and security. A spokesperson for the Council of Member States confirmed the start to the German Press Agency.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the step as "the clear signal that Europe's progress cannot be stopped". He stressed that both sides had worked hard on it and would achieve accession together.
The talks had previously been blocked by Hungary for two years. After Viktor Orbán's ouster in April and an agreement under new Prime Minister Péter Magyar on minority rights, the new government lifted the veto.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the opening a "huge step forward". German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul spoke of a "historic moment for Europe and also for Ukraine".
