The historic agreement between Hungary and Ukraine on the educational, cultural, linguistic, and political rights of the Hungarian community in Transcarpathia has now been formalised. In an formal diplomatic note, the Ukrainian side has committed itself to implementing all provisions of the agreement and has also incorporated them into the EU Minority Action Plan. In just a few weeks, we have succeeded in resolving an issue that the Orbán government was unable to address in ten years.

Migration rules taking effect today strengthen border and asylum management, uphold fundamental rights, boost solidarity and deepen cooperation with non-EU partners. Parliament will monitor the system's implementation. Learn more: link.europa.eu/dkFTxD

Today, the European Union took a major step forward. All Member States agreed to open the first accession negotiations cluster with Ukraine and Moldova. At the first Intergovernmental Conference on Monday, we will open the cluster on fundamentals; the backbone of the accession process. It covers the core values and principles on which the EU is built, from the rule of law to strong democratic institutions. This is a recognition of the determination, courage and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms, even in the face of immense challenges. And a signal that the EU’s offer of peace, stability and opportunity is unmatchable. Enlargement is a strategic choice. By bringing our nations closer together, we strengthen peace, security and prosperity across our continent. In a world marked by growing uncertainty, a larger European Union is in our common interest. Enlargement remains one of the EU’s greatest success stories and our best investment in our shared future.

Even as Ramstein Flag continues at full scale, NATO Allied air forces remain ready to respond to real-world events at a moment's notice. Portuguese 🇵🇹 F-16s and French 🇫🇷 Rafale fighters were scrambled on separate occasions as part of NATO Air Policing missions over the Baltic region. Just before the weekend, @fap_pt F-16s conducted an interception to identify and monitor Russian 🇷🇺 aircraft operating near Baltic airspace, contributing to the security and surveillance of NATO's eastern flank. At the start of this week, @Armee_de_lair Rafales intercepted and identified an uncrewed aerial system (UAS) crossing into Latvian airspace from the east. Following identification and in accordance with established procedures, the drone was engaged and destroyed. The aircraft subsequently conducted an additional surveillance mission along the eastern border of the Baltic states. These missions highlight the readiness and vigilance of NATO Air Policing forces, demonstrating the Alliance's ability to train, deter and defend simultaneously. #NATO #BalticAirPolicing #RamsteinFlag