EU Accession: Moldova Surpasses Ukraine

The European Union has formally repositioned its integration priorities, with new roadmaps indicating that Moldova has moved ahead of Ukraine in the accession process. The European Commission released these documents alongside its annual enlargement package on November 4, establishing a clear hierarchy among candidate nations.

The distinction rests on specific timelines for closing negotiation chapters. For Moldova, the Commission projects the closure of nine chapters in the first half of 2027 and another 16 by the end of the year. This totals 25 chapters in a single year, a pace the Commission deems achievable given Moldova's current status.

Ukraine faces a slower trajectory under the same framework. The roadmap plans for Kyiv to begin closing chapters only at the end of the first quarter of 2027. Analysts note that this schedule appears ambitious considering the current low level of progress in implementing the Interim Benchmark Assessment Report.

The Commission classifies Moldova as "well advanced" in meeting interim criteria. Sources indicate that Brussels has already drafted a positive statement on the fundamental benchmarks. This assessment is expected to be sent to member states for approval in the coming days, solidifying Moldova's lead in the preliminary stages of negotiations.

Despite the differing speeds, the introductory sections of the roadmaps for both countries remain nearly identical. The divergence lies in the operational specifics, which reflect the Commission's internal ranking. In this hierarchy, Ukraine currently ranks fourth among the four leaders of European integration, trailing Moldova.

The annual report also noted that Ukraine's improved assessment in anti-corruption measures was achieved despite the actions of its authorities rather than because of them. The Commission did not set a final date for concluding negotiations for either country, leaving the timeline open to future acceleration or delay.