In what’s been hailed by the European Union’s enlargement chief as ‘Mega Monday’, Ukraine and Moldova are breaking a two-year political deadlock by formally kicking off the first phase of negotiations on joining the bloc. #EuropeNews

Friday's agreement allows Ukraine and Moldova to formally open the first cluster of accession negotiations, known as "Fundamentals". #EuropeNews

The move will make it possible to start talks on June 15

The European Union has agreed to open the first cluster of accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova on Monday, marking a major step in the bloc's enlargement.