Today, the European Union took a major step forward.
All Member States agreed to open the first accession negotiations cluster with Ukraine and Moldova.
At the first Intergovernmental Conference on Monday, we will open the cluster on fundamentals; the backbone of the accession process.
It covers the core values and principles on which the EU is built, from the rule of law to strong democratic institutions.
This is a recognition of the determination, courage and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms, even in the face of immense challenges.
And a signal that the EUโs offer of peace, stability and opportunity is unmatchable.
Enlargement is a strategic choice.
By bringing our nations closer together, we strengthen peace, security and prosperity across our continent.
In a world marked by growing uncertainty, a larger European Union is in our common interest.
Enlargement remains one of the EUโs greatest success stories and our best investment in our shared future.
VON DER LEYEN: We propose, for the first time, to ban from entry into the European Union anyone who has served in Russian armed forces since the beginning of the war.
Europe stays off-limits for anyone who has participated in the invasion of Ukraine. As simple as that.
Our sanctions are working.
They are weakening the economic foundations of Russiaโs war effort.
Today we double down.
With a 21st package.
Covering energy, banks & crypto, trade including fisheries and visa for Russian soldiers โ https://t.co/fTIkATOSfN
The New European Bauhaus is our shared effort to tackle what matters most to our citizens.
Democracy.
Affordable housing.
The industries and infrastructures of the clean transition.
For a sustainable, inclusive and beautiful future for Europe โ https://t.co/Y0vWvS5GYw
Good call on competitiveness with leaders ahead of the upcoming EUCO.
The work starts at home.
By lowering energy costs.
And making life easier for businesses across Europe.
But it does not end there.
Imbalances and overcapacities in global trade pose challenges.
We will address them directly at EUCO.
We prioritise partnership, remain open to dialogue and defend our interests
Many cancers once deemed incurable can now be prevented or treated successfully.
And with our Beating Cancer Plan, we are pushing for more.
Because that's what our fight against cancer is all about.
Turning hope into reality โ
https://t.co/FkQldp0rmL
๐ด ELIMINATED: Muhanad Othman Yassin Farwana, a terrorist cell commander in Hamasโ military wing.
Throughout the war and recently, Farwana was involved in advancing numerous terrorist attack plans against IDF troops and Israeli civilians, and posed an immediate threat to IDF troops operating in the area.
He was eliminated in a precise aerial strike in order to remove the threat.
It was wonderful being among the people of Surat yesterday. From this vibrant city, we collectively reiterated our commitment to making India strong and self-reliant.
๐ช๐บ๐ฒ๐ฉ Over โฌ1 billion in new investments announced for Moldova
โข โฌ641 M from EU and financial institutions
โข โฌ364 M from private sector
The funds will support infrastructure, energy, transport, digitalization and EU integration projects