Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said opening European Union accession negotiation clusters for Ukraine and Moldova should be a priority of Cyprus’ presidency of the Council of the EU. He made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the six-month presidency on Jan. 7, 2026. Zelenskyy said Ukraine expected Cyprus to support its goal of becoming an equal member of the European community. He also welcomed statements supporting the simultaneous opening of negotiation clusters for Ukraine and Moldova during the presidency. Ukraine is also seeking the implementation of a proposed €90 billion EU support package for 2026–2027. Zelenskyy said a practical mechanism was needed to ensure the funds provide effective assistance to Ukraine. The Ukrainian president said peace negotiations had entered a new phase but argued that pressure on Russia must continue through sanctions, military support and efforts targeting Russia’s shadow fleet. He also expressed hope that the EU’s SAFE initiative would strengthen security cooperation and reiterated that Ukraine’s membership in the EU would be an important long-term guarantee of peace and security. Post navigation Ukraine Seeks EU Talks Under Cyprus Presidency Crackdown on ‘Black Axe’ Nets 34