Nexus Europa — Jun 12, 2026, 09:00 PM UTC

EU to open accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova; UN reports high civilian casualties; China trained Russian troops, EU confirms

The EU is set to formally commence accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova on June 15, opening the initial "Foundations" cluster. Meanwhile, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine documented a four-year high in civilian casualties for May 2026. Separately, EU i

The European Union is preparing to formally open accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova on June 15, with the Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council confirming the launch of the initial "Foundations" cluster. This stage will address areas such as rule of law, public administration reform, and democratic governance. Concurrently, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine reported a significant increase in civilian casualties for May 2026, documenting 274 fatalities and 1,763 injuries, the highest monthly toll since April 2022. Additionally, EU intelligence services have confirmed reports that China provided training to Russian military personnel on its territory, some of whom were later deployed to Ukraine, claims Beijing has consistently denied.

Sources: Громадське, Українська правда, Радіо Свобода

United States deports migrants to Central African Republic

The U.S. has begun implementing a new migration agreement with the Central African Republic, deporting approximately 20 foreign nationals, including Iranian, Turkish, Syrian, and Afghan migrants, to Bangui on June 12.

The United States has begun implementing a recently concluded migration agreement with the Central African Republic (CAR), deporting approximately 20 foreign nationals to the nation. On Friday, June 12, a charter flight operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security landed at Bangui airport, carrying individuals from various countries, including at least two Iranian women, as well as Turkish, Syrian, and Afghan migrants. The agreement, finalized in early June, facilitates these expulsions to the Central African nation, which is among the world's poorest countries. Sources: Le Monde.