Sandra Kalniete: Ukraine's EU Accession Could Reshape Europe's Balance of Power

After years of stagnation, the question of European Union enlargement has once again become one of the central issues in European politics. Both Ukraine and Moldova have recently been advancing in their paths toward EU membership, and this process is fueling new debate about the Union's future.

Debate over the balance of power

One of the key questions European politicians are currently grappling with is how Ukraine's potential accession could affect the balance of power among EU member states. Also relevant is the question of whether Moldova, whose negotiations with the EU are running in parallel with Ukraine's process, could move forward faster than its neighbor.

These questions are discussed by Member of the European Parliament Sandra Kalniete on TVNET's program "Pulss," broadcast from Strasbourg.

The need for EU reform

Alongside the revival of the enlargement process, there is growing discussion about the need to reform the European Union itself. Admitting new member states would require changes to the EU's decision-making mechanisms and institutional structure so that the Union can continue functioning effectively after enlargement.

At the same time, financing presents a significant challenge — EU member states will need to agree on how to secure the funds required both for integrating new countries and for financing defense and security. These two financial priorities are currently seen as equally urgent, and balancing them could become one of the most difficult issues in EU policy in the coming years.