MEPs vote overwhelmingly to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

MEPs have voted overwhelmingly in favour of an EU decision that helps working with Ukraine on its bid for EU membership and condemns Russia’s violence in Ukraine.

The decision referred to as “for the EU establishments to work in the direction of granting EU candidate standing to Ukraine” and to proceed working in the direction of integrating the nation into the one market.

Earlier, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gave an emotional speech to MEPs calling for his nation to affix the European Union.

Showing over video hyperlink because the Russian military continues its assault, Zelenskyy referred to as on Europe to show that it supported his nation by permitting it to affix the EU.

“We’re combating for our rights, for our freedoms and now we’re combating for survival. We’re additionally combating to be equal members of Europe,” Zelenskyy stated.

“Do show that you’re with us. Do show that you’ll not allow us to go. Do show that you’re certainly Europeans. After which, life will win over demise and lightweight will win over darkness. Glory be to Ukraine.”

Zelenskyy was talking simply days after European Fee President Ursula Von der Leyen informed Euronews that Ukraine “is considered one of us and we wish them within the European Union”.

It got here as Brussels introduced that it was sending weapons to the nation, banning Russian-backed media and blocking Russian planes from European air area.

However though Zelenskyy has referred to as for fast recognition, the method of accession may take a while. Within the case of different nations, together with Serbia, Montenegro, Bulgaria and North Macedonia, it has taken years.

Charles Michel, president of the European Council, stated there have been “totally different opinions and sensitivities” amongst EU members on Kyiv’s accession.

“Membership is a long-standing request from Ukraine,” stated Michel. “However there are totally different opinions and sensitivities inside the EU on enlargement.

“Ukraine will submit an official request, the European Fee should specific an official opinion and the Council will resolve.”

Chatting with Euronews, French MEP Bernard Guetta stated, proper now, EU membership for Ukraine shouldn’t be an choice.

“This can solely be the start of an extended course of as a result of any accession to the European Union is a really lengthy course of and Ukraine, sadly with this warfare, with the restrictions, and the scenario within the Donbas and Crimea [membership is unlikely],” Guetta stated.

“However we’ve to ship this political and symbolic sign to the Ukrainian folks as a result of symbolism may be very, crucial in politics.”