European Council asks European Commission for opinion on Ukraine's bid for EU membership

Oleksandr Demchenko, “World” column editor

The European Council recognized Ukraine's European aspirations and invited the European Commission to provide conclusions on Ukraine's application for EU membership. This is stated in a statement issued following the emergency summit in Versailles of EU heads of state and government, which was devoted to Russian aggression.

“The European Council acknowledged the European aspirations and the European choice of Ukraine, as stated in the Association Agreement. On 28 February 2022, exercising the right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny, the President of Ukraine submitted the application of Ukraine to become a member of the European Union. The Council has acted swiftly and invited the Commission to submit its opinion on this application in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Treaties. Pending this and without delay, we will further strengthen our bonds and deepen our partnership to support Ukraine in pursuing its European path. Ukraine belongs to our European family”.

At the same time, the statement does not refer to Article 49 of the EU Treaty on the accession procedure, as well as any mention of the "accelerated procedure" that Ukraine sought.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda was satisfied with the decision of the EU summit and said that it was a "yes" to Ukraine's integration into the EU.

“A historic night at Versailles. After five hours of heated discussions EU leaders said yes to Ukrainian eurointegration. The process started. Now it is up to us and Ukrainians to accomplish it fast. Heroic Ukrainian nation deserves to know that they are welcome in EU,” Nausėda wrote.

European Council President Charles Michel said the EU would continue to "strengthenour bonds and deepen our partnerships to support Ukraine on its European path".