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| Photograph: Johanna Geron/Reuters |
In a surprising move that delivers a significant boost to Volodymyr Zelenskiy and deals a blow to Vladimir Putin, the European Union has decided to initiate membership negotiations with Ukraine. The announcement followed eight hours of tense negotiations in Brussels on Thursday.
Despite the opposition from Hungary, whose Prime Minister Viktor Orbán had consistently vowed to veto any opening of accession talks, the decision was made unanimously by the leaders of the other 26 member states. In an unusual move, Orbán reportedly left the room when the crucial decision was reached.
Sources indicated that Orbán's decision not to be present during the decision-making process was prearranged, with the understanding that the other 26 member states strongly supported the move. While unconventional, this maneuver was deemed legal.
Following the announcement, Zelenskiy expressed his satisfaction, stating, "This is a victory for Ukraine. A victory for all of Europe. A victory that motivates, inspires, and strengthens." On social media, he added, "History is made by those who don’t get tired of fighting for freedom."
Charles Michel, the European Council president, who presided over a Brussels summit of the EU’s 27 leaders where the historic decision was made, described it as "a clear signal of hope for their people and our continent." He emphasized that this moment is historic, ensuring the credibility and strength of the EU.
After weeks of tension with Viktor Orbán, who had consistently criticized Ukraine as "one of the most corrupt countries in the world," the decision was unexpectedly reached in less than nine hours of closed-door talks.
While there is no mechanism for a country to abstain on a decision of this magnitude, Hungary suggested that it was a decision endorsed by 26 member states rather than the full 27.
In a social media video, Orbán explained that he had not voted, expressing his refusal to participate in what he deemed "a completely senseless, irrational, and incorrect decision."
Budapest decided that the other member states "should go their own way," Viktor Orbán stated. He expressed Hungary's unwillingness to partake in what he deemed a "bad decision," and consequently, Hungary did not participate in the decision reached today.
In a surprising turn of events, the European Union has chosen to initiate membership negotiations with Ukraine, delivering a crucial boost to Volodymyr Zelenskiy and dealing a blow to Vladimir Putin. The decision, reached after eight hours of tense negotiations in Brussels on Thursday, defied the opposition from Hungary, whose Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, had threatened to veto any opening of accession talks.
In a highly unusual move, diplomats revealed that Orbán left the room when the unanimous decision was made by leaders of the other 26 member states. Despite Hungary's absence during the decision-making, sources clarified that this was agreed upon beforehand, emphasizing the legality of the process.
Following the announcement, Zelenskiy expressed his gratitude, calling it "a victory for Ukraine, a victory for all of Europe. A victory that motivates, inspires, and strengthens." European Council President Charles Michel, chairing the summit, hailed it as "a clear signal of hope for their people and our continent," describing the moment as historic and reinforcing the credibility and strength of the EU.
The decision, coming after weeks of tension with Orbán, who argued Ukraine was one of the most corrupt countries, surprised many with its swift conclusion in less than nine hours of closed-door talks. Orbán, speaking in a video on social media, revealed he did not vote, refusing to participate in what he deemed "a completely senseless, irrational, and incorrect decision."
Despite Orbán's initial strong opposition, Hungary later suggested the decision was endorsed by 26 member states rather than the full 27, emphasizing the widespread support for Ukraine's accession talks.
This development is a significant moment for Zelenskiy, who is currently working to secure US Republican support for a $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine. Putin, in a press conference, hinted at concerns over Western support for Kyiv, claiming it would soon diminish. Zelenskiy even considered a last-minute appeal by flying to Brussels but ultimately found it unnecessary. The EU's decision to open the path for Ukraine's membership negotiations comes at a critical time for the country and its president.
Just before the leaders enjoyed a lunch of Breton medallion, root vegetables, and panettone, Ukrainian President Zelenskiy passionately appealed to EU leaders not to hesitate on EU membership, emphasizing that such indecision would bring a "satisfied smile" to Putin's face.
Zelenskiy urged EU leaders to consider the soldiers in the trenches rather than their own needs, highlighting the sacrifices made by those on the front lines. He emphasized the importance of supporting those defending against Russian aggression and the resilience of individuals working under constant threats.
Charles Michel announced that negotiations for Ukraine's EU membership would commence in March, coinciding with the completion of a report on the final changes Ukraine needs to undertake for the initial steps towards EU integration.
Michel expressed the EU's strong support for Ukraine, describing the decision as a powerful political signal and emphasizing the significance of standing with the people of Ukraine.
The summit will continue into Friday, addressing critical issues such as addressing the pandemic and energy crisis within the EU budget and discussing matters like sanctions on Hamas leaders, Israeli settlers involved in violence, and the growing concern of antisemitism.
Late on Thursday, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland broke off to reconcile differences on budget priorities, including an allocation of nearly €10 billion for migration issues.
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