The European Union has taken another step towards Ukraine within the framework of the accession process. The Committee of Permanent Representatives of the Member States (COREPER) has officially approved the opening of the sixth negotiation cluster.
This was announced by Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, Taras Kachka, on his X social media account. According to him, this decision is an important stage in the dialogue between Kyiv and Brussels.
What is included in the sixth cluster?
The opened "External Relations" cluster covers a wide range of strategic issues critical for Ukraine's future membership. Within its framework, the parties will discuss:
- Common security and defense policy;
- Trade relations;
- Humanitarian aid;
- Development cooperation.
These topics directly concern Ukraine's integration into the single economic and defense space of the European Union.
Expected dates and previous steps
According to Taras Kachka, the final formal decision on this issue is expected on July 14 during the Intergovernmental Conference (IGC).
This event continues a series of progressive steps in the negotiations. Previously, on June 15, the European Union had already opened the first negotiation cluster for Ukraine — "Fundamentals". Thus, the accession process is gaining momentum, moving from theoretical discussions to specific working groups.
Position of the European Parliament
An important context for these events is the position of the European Parliament, which previously supported Ukraine's further progress towards EU membership. However, in its resolution, the deputies paid special attention to a number of issues, including the decision to name one of the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in honor of the heroes of the UPA, which became the subject of separate discussion in European institutions.
