In a surprising turn, European Union leaders granted approval on Thursday to initiate membership talks with Ukraine.
Kyiv, Ukraine. Image credit: Glib Albovsky via Unsplash, free license
This decision was made in an effort to overcome Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s weeks-long pledge to block the process.
Such an unconventional method of approval, especially for a significant decision, is unprecedented in Brussels, even for a diplomatic arena known for its creativity in striking deals.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed his appreciation for the decision, characterizing it as a victory for Ukraine and all of Europe.
“This is a victory for Ukraine. A victory for all of Europe. A victory that motivates, inspires, and strengthens,” he said.
Ukraine is in dire need of support from its Western allies in its nearly two-year struggle against Russia’s invasion. Despite the failure of its counter-offensive to achieve significant progress, the Biden administration has faced challenges in securing approval for a $60 billion aid package for Ukraine from the U.S. Congress.
Ursula von der Leyen, the chief of the European Commission, emphasized that the decision to open membership talks with Ukraine was “a strategic decision and a day that will remain engraved in the history of our Union.”
The negotiations themselves are expected to span several years. Ukraine, with a population of 44 million and a geographical size surpassing any existing EU member, poses unique challenges for entry into the 27-member bloc.
Written by Alius Noreika