European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, has confirmed that Ukraine and Moldova will continue to be considered together on their path to EU accession. This joint approach signifies solidarity between both countries as they embark on this significant journey. However, Kos cautioned that this could change if Ukraine does not maintain an adequate pace in implementing necessary reforms, emphasizing that the EU accession process is merit-based and conditional on fulfilling specific requirements.

Kos stressed that both countries began their EU membership process together and should ideally continue in lockstep. However, the future of this unity appears contingent on Ukraine's ability to keep up with reform expectations. Should Ukraine fall behind Moldova in reform implementation, there is the potential for their paths to diverge, which could have significant implications for regional dynamics and EU enlargement strategies.

This statement by Kos comes amid ongoing discussions within the EU about enlargement and the complexities surrounding candidate countries. With the emphasis on merit-based accession, the pressure is on Ukraine to demonstrate substantial progress in reforms to align with EU standards, highlighting the broader geopolitical significance of the EU's approach to the region.