BRUSSELS: The European Union’s executive branch recommended on Wednesday the initiation of formal membership negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, signaling strong support for Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Ukraine officially expressed its desire to join the European Union shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022 and was designated as a candidate for EU membership in June of the same year.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that today is a historic day, acknowledging Ukraine’s significant efforts in the face of Russia’s aggression and their commitment to reforming the country.
Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, praised the decision as the “right step” for Europe, emphasizing that Ukrainians have earned EU membership through their defense of European values and their commitment to their word, even during times of full-scale war.
Moldova Welcomes European Union’s Decision
Reacting to the development, Moldovan President Maia Sandu expressed gratitude to Brussels and affirmed her country’s strong determination to continue its path towards EU membership.
The final decision on these recommendations will be made by the EU’s 27 leaders at a summit scheduled for December. Ursula von der Leyen highlighted that Ukraine and Moldova would be required to implement further reforms before a formal start date for negotiations could be established. An update on their progress will be provided by the European Commission in March 2024.
It is important to note that even if Ukraine enters into negotiations, it will be at the initial stage of a comprehensive reform process, which could extend over several years, or even decades, before achieving EU membership. In addition to endorsing progress for Ukraine and Moldova, Brussels also proposed that EU member states grant candidate status to Georgia.
Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili expressed her joy and shared her appreciation with the people of Georgia through online channels.
