Lithuania pushes for Ukraine’s EU talks — without Hungary in the room

According to European Pravda, citing broadcaster LRT, the call was outlined in a letter that Vilnius sent last week to EU capitals ahead of the informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Copenhagen on September 1–2.

The document stresses that opening accession talks would boost Ukrainians’ morale and encourage reforms at a time when Russia is escalating its military aggression. At the same time, Lithuania warns that further delays risk undermining public support for EU membership in Ukraine and weakening the country’s institutional capacity for reforms.

Vilnius proposes to launch technical-level negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova without Hungary if 26 member states agree. A formal endorsement could follow later if Budapest changes its position.

The letter also reiterates Lithuania’s long-standing proposal to set 2030 as the target date for Ukraine’s accession, arguing that it would help both sides plan reforms and resources more effectively.

Acting Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys told LRT that Lithuania is determined to unblock Ukraine’s EU path.

He stressed that any further delay is geopolitically harmful for both Ukraine and the European Union. Ukraine’s membership is part of Europe’s security guarantees and is essential for long-term peace and stability.

Lithuania’s proposals are expected to be discussed in Copenhagen, where the meeting, chaired by the EU’s new foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, will focus mainly on the war in Ukraine and the Middle East.