Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a video footage released Friday that every positive signal from the European Union confirmed Ukraine's bid to join the bloc is "on the right path".
The remarks come after Hungary recently agreed to support accession talks after reaching a deal with Kiev to expand the rights of ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine, removing what had been seen as a major obstacle.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko wrote on social media the previous day that all 27 EU member states had agreed to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova.
"We are one step closer to EU membership, steadily moving towards our goal," the prime minister said on X.
According to The Kiev Independent, the formal start date for negotiations has not yet been set. According to diplomats from the EU and Ukraine, the preferred timing would be June 15 on the sidelines of a foreign ministers' meeting in Luxembourg, or the following day if scheduling requires.
Hungary and several other EU states had previously opposed Ukraine's membership bid, but Budapest recently signaled support after reaching an agreement with Kiev to expand the rights of ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine.
With Ukraine pledging to implement necessary legal reforms, Hungary's backing is seen as removing a major obstacle to opening talks.
Russian officials have said they are open to Ukraine joining the EU, but remain opposed to its accession to NATO.
Ukrainian president says EU accession bid "on right path"
Ukrainian president says EU accession bid "on right path"
