The European Union to Open Accession Negotiations with Ukraine

Negotiations Begin Amidst War

The European Union made a momentous decision on Thursday to open accession negotiations with Ukraine. This comes as a stunning reversal for a country that has been at war and has long faced opposition from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The decision was made during a Brussels summit of the EU's 27 leaders, chaired by European Council President Charles Michel. Michel referred to the decision as a 'clear signal of hope for their people and our continent.'

Ukraine Sees the Agreement as a Victory

While the process of Ukraine becoming a member of the EU could take many years, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sees the agreement as a victory. Zelenskyy stated that the decision is 'a victory for Ukraine' and 'a victory for all of Europe.' He called on those who fight for freedom and stated that history is made by those who don't get tired of fighting.

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo noted that the agreement is also a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin. De Croo stated, 'It is a very clear message to Moscow. Us Europeans, we don't let go of Ukraine.'

Orban's Opposition Dissolves, Negotiations Move Forward

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has long opposed Ukraine's EU membership aspirations. However, with a unanimous decision required, Orban chose to let his right to oppose lapse as the other 26 leaders argued strongly in favor. Orban's opposition did not change his perspective, as he still believes Ukraine is not ready for EU membership. Despite this, his decision to abstain allowed the negotiations to move forward.

Other EU leaders praised Orban's gesture, highlighting the unity shown during the summit. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar commended Orban for not using his veto power, stating, 'I respect the fact that he didn't do that, because it would have put us in a very difficult position as a European Union.'