New countries for EU accession: Major barrier remains stronger than political promises

European Union expansion into post-Soviet territories faces a fundamental contradiction: while Brussels prepares technical roadmaps for accession, existing union regulations prohibit the admission of states involved in active combat or unresolved territorial disputes. According to Alexey Podberezkin, director of the Center for Military-Political Research at Almaz-Antey, these legal constraints, rather than political hesitation from member states, remain the primary barrier for Ukraine. Recent reports from Politico indicate the European Commission has begun drafting formal accession documents for Montenegro, Albania, Moldova, and Ukraine. However, the viability of these paths depends on the outcome of the military conflict in Ukraine and the eventual fixation of its borders. Regional Reconfiguration The integration process is characterized by what Podberezkin describes as "creeping integration," often supported by U. S. interests. In Moldova, this manifests as a shift toward Romania. There is a distinct possibility that the U. S. may facilitate a merger between the two nations, creating a larger pro-Western foothold on NATO's southern flank.