EU | roadmap for next wave of member states

The Commission’s annual review finds Montenegro close to the final stage of accession talks, with its remaining chapters possibly closed by the end of 2026. Albania is aiming to finish negotiations by 2027, Moldova by early 2028 and Ukraine by the end of 2028. The Commission proposed roadmaps for these four countries and plans to integrate candidates gradually into EU energy, transport, digital and defence frameworks. It also reports stalled progress or backsliding in Serbia, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Türkiye and Georgia.
Why it matters: A larger EU would extend single-market rules to new markets in Southeast and Eastern Europe, opening trade and investment opportunities for US and European companies.

Compliments of European Commission