UWC welcomes the decision of France, Germany, Italy and Romania to support EU candidacy for Ukraine

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) welcomes the historic decision by leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Romania to support granting EU candidate status to Ukraine.

A joint statement by President Emmanuel Macron, Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Prime Minister Mario Draghi and President Klaus Iohannis   was made today in Kyiv following their meeting and talks with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. Prior to the official meeting, the four leaders visited the city of Irpin to witness the aftermath of Russian occupation and learn more about Russia’s atrocities.

The EU leaders’ strong words of support for Ukraine and the country’s EU perspective mark a major shift in a public discussion in Europe regarding Ukraine’s European path. This is also a powerful signal to the European Commission, which is expected to publish its recommendation on the EU candidate status for Ukraine on June 17, 2022.

The European leaders also assured that Europe would remain by Ukraine’s side “as long as necessary, until the victory is achieved”.

“Today the leaders of a Free Europe have demonstrated their true leadership, strategic thinking and responsibility for the future of the European continent. Brave people of Ukraine are not only fighting for the independence and freedom of their country, but also defending fundamental European values. Ukrainians have earned their right to be a part of a single European family. They will strengthen the Union,” said Paul Grod, UWC President.

“The road ahead to Ukraine’s full EU membership is long, but we are finally making our first steps, all together, united and resolved” Grod added.

Europe #EmbraceUkraine and together we will prevail!🇺🇦🇪🇺 https://t.co/D9bKLpb1Bm

— Ukrainian World Congress 🇺🇦 (@UWCongress) June 16, 2022