EU Greenlight for Ukraine and Moldova's Membership Bid: A Triumph for Europe
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky celebrated a "victory for Ukraine" and Europe as a whole after the European Union (EU) agreed upon initiating accession talks for both Ukraine and Moldova. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described it as a "strong sign of support and a perspective for Ukraine," emphasizing their inclusion within the EU family.
Amidst this triumph, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban voiced his disagreement, labeling the decision as senseless and wrong. Orban's opposition seemed to dissipate when German Chancellor Olaf Scholz proposed a saving grace, allowing Orban to keep his face unaffected in the agreement's adoption. Orban's non-participation in the vote permitted the other 26 EU members to convene and push forward the decision.
Most EU members supported the opening of the accession negotiations at the summit's outset. Following a collective consensus, these Eastern European countries are now a step closer to joining the EU. Despite Hungary's abstention, it is evidenced that the EU's integrity remains firm and steadfast, displaying an enviable strength.
According to EU Council President Charles Michel, the decision was "a historic moment, showing the credibility of the European Union, the strength of the European Union." Furthermore, he announced that Georgia was elevated to the status of a candidate country for EU membership, paving the way for future negotiations.
President of Moldova, Maia Sandu, acknowledged the consensus by feeling "the warm embrace of Europe." She remains optimistic but expressed the need for continued efforts to meet the country's requirements to secure entry into the EU. Ukraine and Moldova have applied for EU membership in the immediate aftermath of Russia's provocation in early 2022.
Meanwhile, discussions continued around the EU's aid package of 50 billion euros for Ukraine. At the same time, efforts were made to expand the EU budget framework by billion in euros for the timeframe between 2022 and 2027. Negotiations surrounding these endeavors eventually unfolded among EU leaders.
Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, urged the EU against any summit failure, fearing a "satisfied smile" from Russia's President, Vladimir Putin.
Additional Insights from Enrichment Data:
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban had previously expressed his opposition to the EU's decision to promote Ukraine and Moldova's EU membership aspirations. Despite his stance, EU leaders endeavored to unite behind a shared vision of European unity, which ultimately led to the approval of accession talks on December 14, 2024.
Orban abstained from the vote rather than actively opposing the decision, which was ultimately within the jurisdiction of the 26 other EU members. His opposition was largely symbolic, with EU consensus overruling his resistance.
Orban has maintained a close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, sparking speculation that his opposition to Ukraine's EU membership was influenced by this alliance. His hostility towards the EU's support for Ukraine also reflects a broader political stance aimed at preserving Hungary's autonomy within the EU.
As it stands, the European Commission intends to present a report in March 2023, evaluating Bosnia-Herzegovina's eligibility for EU membership. If Bosnia-Herzegovina fulfills the necessary conditions, EU accession talks will commence.
