The Kremlin has long complained of Ukraine’s deepening ties with Western powers — along with discussions around joining NATO — citing it as part of their initial justification for starting Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
“This is a recognition of the determination, courage and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms, even in the face of immense challenges,” von der Leyen said in a statement. “And a signal that the EU’s offer of peace, stability and opportunity is unmatchable.”
Throughout the all-out war that Russian President Vladimir Putin launched against Ukraine in 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly made EU accession a strategic priority to safeguard his country from future Russian interference.
“As we have said, Ukraine is doing what is necessary, and it is important that the EU is also keeping its word,” Zelenskyy wrote in a post on X. “We also congratulate Moldova on this step, which we are taking together.”
In Moldova, the breakaway region of Transnistria remains occupied by Russian troops in a frozen conflict that dates back to a 1992 ceasefire. In 2024, the Kremlin also attempted to meddle with Moldova’s presidential election, which ultimately ended with pro-Western incumbent Maia Sandu remaining in power.
The vote by EU ambassadors Friday evening came after Hungary dropped its long-standing opposition to Ukraine’s bid for EU membership.
Budapest had opposed Kyiv’s accession fiercely under former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, but the country’s new leadership that came to power last month was open to lifting its veto following a meeting between Ukrainian and Hungarian experts on minority rights for Hungarians living in Ukraine.