Hungary has signaled its readiness to withdraw objections to the start of negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the European Union. If Budapest indeed changes its position, Ukraine and Moldova will be able to move to the next stage of Eurointegration as early as June.
Four European diplomats reported that Budapest has indicated its readiness to lift its objections regarding Ukraine's application for membership in the European Union.
If this happens, Ukraine and Moldova will be able to move to the next stage of Eurointegration - the opening of the first negotiation cluster, which is the official start of negotiations for EU accession.
According to Politico sources, the relevant decision may be made during the intergovernmental conference in Luxembourg on June 15.
What Changed Budapest's Position
Diplomats link the possible compromise to recent negotiations between Ukrainian and Hungarian experts regarding the rights of the Hungarian minority in Ukraine.
During the meeting, the Ukrainian side presented proposals on most points from the list of demands previously put forward by Viktor Orban's government.
According to one diplomat, Hungary's approval does not depend on the immediate adoption of new laws in Ukraine, and some issues can be resolved through further consultations.
At the same time, Budapest has not officially confirmed a change in position yet.
"A decision has not yet been made. Negotiations are ongoing. No agreement has been reached," said a Hungarian official on condition of anonymity.
When a Decision May Be Made
It is expected that by the end of the week, ambassadors of EU countries will form a final position on opening the first negotiation cluster for Ukraine and Moldova.
Before that, Kyiv must present updated reform plans and additional developments on the protection of the rights of national minorities.
After this, the issue will be brought to the intergovernmental conference in Luxembourg.
Unanimous support from all 27 EU member states is required to open any negotiation cluster.
A final decision has not yet been made, but diplomatic contacts between Kyiv and Budapest seem to have brought the parties closer to a compromise. If all EU countries support the opening of the first negotiation cluster, Ukraine and Moldova will take an important step towards EU membership.
