European Union officially gives war-torn Ukraine candidate status

The European Union has officially agreed to give war-torn Ukraine a candidature for EU membership in a historic day for the country.

The EU has accepted both Ukraine and Moldova as candidates for the union. Ukraine applied for EU membership on 27th February, less than a week after Russia launched its invasion.The journey to actual membership is a long one and can take years to join. This could be the first step for Ukraine, but applicants aren’t always guaranteed success in this endeavour. Countries must meet detailed political and economic conditions as well as commitments to rule of law.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tweeted out ‘sincerely commend[ing] EU leaders’ decision at EUCO to grant Ukraine a candidate status. It’s a unique and historical moment in Ukraine-EU relations.’

EP President Roberta Metsola also tweeted out saying ‘On the right side of history. Congratulations to the people of Ukraine and Moldova. Today we gave hope. For freedom, for democracy, for our future.’

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