This significant announcement was made by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, during the presentation of the new composition of the European Commission in Strasbourg on November 27, 2024.
Strong Endorsement from the European Commission
During the plenary session of the European Parliament, President Ursula von der Leyen underscored the EU’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s European aspirations. She emphasized that the EU envisions Ukraine as a future member and will provide comprehensive support to facilitate its integration.
“Let there be no doubt - we want Ukraine to become part of the European Union. Therefore, we will stand by Ukraine for as long as it is necessary. We will be ready with the reforms that are necessary on our part. And we will support these countries every step of the way, in a process based on achievements, until they are ready to join our European Union,” von der Leyen stated.
Appointment of Marta Kos as Commissioner for Enlargement
In line with the EU’s expansion goals, Marta Kos, a Slovenian politician, has been appointed as the new European Commissioner for Enlargement. Von der Leyen praised Kos for her extensive experience and dedication to the EU’s vision of a united continent founded on democracy, rule of law, and respect for fundamental rights.
“Marta Kos - with her experience - is the right person for the job. The vision of a continent united by democracy, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental rights will always guide our work. Because the people of these countries deserve a future of peace, progress, and prosperity. And we will ensure that this future can be in Europe,” von der Leyen added.
Expanding the EU’s Vision Beyond Member States
Von der Leyen highlighted that the EU’s commitment to fostering a united and prosperous Europe extends beyond its current 27 member states. She pointed to the Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine as pivotal regions deserving of the EU’s support and integration efforts.
“We have seen the courage of the people of Ukraine on their European path. We have seen the resilience of the people of Moldova, who insist on a European future. We have seen the commitment of the Western Balkans to reforms, to growth, and to preparing for membership in the European Union. At the same time, we have seen that Russia will stop at nothing to prevent their European future. But, distinguished Members of the European Parliament, Europe’s commitment to these countries will always be stronger,” she emphasized.
Overcoming Geopolitical Challenges
The EU’s aspirations for Ukraine’s membership come amidst significant geopolitical tensions, particularly with Russia opposing the expansion of the EU and NATO. Von der Leyen acknowledged Russia’s efforts to thwart the European future of neighboring countries but reaffirmed the EU’s determination to support its partners.
Institutional Support and Future Steps
The agreement to support Ukraine’s EU membership is part of the broader agenda of the newly formed European Commission for the next five years. The inclusion of Marta Kos is expected to strengthen the EU’s strategic approach to enlargement, ensuring that Ukraine and other candidate countries receive the necessary guidance and resources to meet membership criteria.
Financial and Technical Assistance
To facilitate Ukraine’s integration, the EU will provide both financial aid and technical support aimed at implementing essential reforms. This includes aligning Ukrainian legislation with European standards, enhancing governance structures, and promoting economic stability and growth.
Harmonizing Legislation with European Standards
One of the key objectives is to harmonize Ukrainian laws with those of the EU, ensuring that Ukraine meets the necessary criteria for membership. This legal alignment will cover various sectors, including governance, economic policy, human rights, and environmental standards.
International and Domestic Reactions
Ukrainian Leadership’s Response
Ukrainian officials have welcomed the EU’s commitment, viewing it as a crucial step towards securing their country’s sovereignty and future prosperity. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting the importance of international support in navigating the challenges of ongoing conflict and economic recovery.
European Union’s Internal Consensus
While the EU maintains a unified stance on Ukraine’s membership, individual member states continue to discuss the specifics of the integration process. Germany, France, and Britain play pivotal roles in shaping the EU’s policies towards enlargement, balancing support for Ukraine with broader strategic considerations.
Conclusion
The European Union’s declaration of intent to support Ukraine’s membership signifies a historic moment in the region’s geopolitical landscape. With the appointment of Marta Kos as Commissioner for Enlargement and the robust backing from the European Commission, Ukraine is poised to embark on a transformative journey towards becoming an integral part of the EU. This commitment not only reinforces the EU’s dedication to fostering a united and prosperous Europe but also serves as a beacon of hope for countries striving for democratic values and economic stability amidst adversity.
As the new European Commission begins its tenure, the EU’s focused efforts on enlargement and support for Ukraine will play a critical role in shaping the future of the continent, ensuring peace, progress, and prosperity for all its member states and aspiring candidates.
