In a surprise announcement, European Council President Charles Michel stated that the European Council had decided to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, bringing Ukraine one step closer to European Union membership. This decision was made despite Hungary's pledge to block it during the EU summit. Other member states, such as Italy, have also expressed concerns about enlarging the EU.
President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, responded to Michel's announcement, calling it a victory for his country and Europe. He stated that it was a motivating and inspiring development for Ukraine.
Hungary's Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, however, disagreed with the decision and claimed that his country did not participate in the decision-making process.
The agreement also included granting candidate status to Georgia and the potential opening of negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina once they meet the necessary membership criteria.
This move towards EU membership for Ukraine is seen as a sign of hope for the people of Ukraine and for the continent as a whole.
The decision to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova demonstrates the EU's willingness to expand its membership despite concerns raised by certain member states. It remains to be seen how the negotiations will progress and what the final outcome will be.