The European Commission has backed Ukraine and Moldova to become candidates for EU membership.
But leaders of EU countries will then have the final say at a summit in Brussels on 23-24 June.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said: “Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia share the strong and legitimate aspiration of joining the European Union. Today, we are sending them a clear signal of support in their aspirations, even as they face challenging circumstances. And we do so standing firm on our European values and standards, setting out the path they need to follow in order to join the EU. The Commission’s opinions mark an inflection point in our relations. Indeed, this is a historic day for the people of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. We are confirming that they belong, in due time, in the European Union. The next steps are now in the hands of our Member States.”
The announcement was welcomed by both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his Moldovan counterpart Maia Sandu.
