The EU has commended Moldova’s progress towards European integration. However, as the country, which applied for EU membership nearly simultaneously with Ukraine, now finds itself affected by Hungary’s veto on Kyiv, its president Maia Sandu has called for transparency in her remarks to Euronews.

Moldova remains dedicated to joining the European Union, yet requires “consistent engagement” and “clear direction” from the bloc to advance integration, Moldovan President Maia Sandu told Euronews.

Since formal accession talks began with the EU in June 2024, Moldova “has demonstrated commitment and fulfilled its obligations,” Sandu stated in a message sent by email.

“The current need is for ongoing engagement and precise guidance from the EU to prioritize enlargement strategically and to sustain progress for those who deliver results.”

Sandu is set to express her expectations for the EU during Euronews’ “Enlargement Summit” next Tuesday in Brussels. This coincides with the European Commission’s upcoming annual report that will highlight Chișinău’s integration efforts.

The EU has also reaffirmed its backing for Moldova’s EU path by unveiling up to €1.9 billion in funding for the period 2025–2027 under the new Moldova Growth Plan — marking the largest financial package offered by the EU since Moldova’s independence.

Despite this, Moldova confronts a demanding journey ahead, entangled in the repercussions of Hungary’s veto against Ukraine’s membership bid. Chișinău’s application, submitted almost concurrently with Kyiv’s in 2022, has meant the two countries’ ambitions have been intertwined.

Moldova and Ukraine are prepared to open the initial cluster of accession negotiations, called Fundamentals, which addresses core areas such as democracy, human rights, security, judicial reform, and public procurement.

To date, the EU has avoided separating the two membership applications, concerned that doing so could weaken Kyiv at a critical time when accession is viewed as reinforcing security guarantees. However, this approach risks delaying progress.

Sandu conveyed to Euronews that her country’s EU membership has gained “greater significance» following the conflict in Ukraine.

“Previously, our European integration was driven by the aspiration for development—to modernize the nation, gain access to the EU market, and bolster the economy,” Sandu remarked. “Today, it also embodies a pursuit of security and stability.»

“Moldova’s survival and strengthening as a democracy are possible only within the EU framework,” she added.

Sandu has actively promoted the nation’s EU course to counteract Moscow’s hybrid interference attempts during recent elections aimed at dividing society.

Her pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) secured victory in the September parliamentary elections, a critical moment for reinforcing Moldova’s path toward EU membership.

“Moldova seeks peaceful coexistence and stands ready to contribute to a stronger, safer Europe,” Sandu concluded.

Euronews will air its flagship EU Enlargement Summit live on its television and digital platforms, including YouTube, at 2 pm CET on Tuesday.