Precipitated by Russia’s attack on Ukraine, Ukraine has been embraced more closely by the European Union.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen gave a passionate speech in the European Parliament on March 1. It was preceded by an even more passionate address to the EU’s representative from President Volodymyr Zelensky which was greeted by a long, standing, ovation.
In her speech, the EU Commission President stated that the war has once again engulfed Europe, and the west is committed to opposing Russia’s President Putin’s outrageous invasion of Ukraine.
“Men, women, children are dying, once again, because a foreign leader, President Putin, decided that their country, Ukraine, has no right to exist. And we will never ever let that happen and never ever accept that“
she said, adding that Putin strengthened the western community instead of dividing it.
She also addressed the European people, saying that after two years of the pandemic everyone hoped to focus on the economic and social recovery. However, she added that she believes that the people of Europe understand that they must step up against this cruel act of aggression.
“Yes, protecting our liberty comes at a price. But this is a defining moment. And this is the cost we are willing to pay. Because freedom is priceless, Honourable Members. This is our principle: Freedom is priceless,” von der Leyen said.
She added that for the first time in the European Union’s history, the Union will allocate one billion euros in total to fund Ukraine’s army and the consequences of the humanitarian crisis for both those who live in the country and refugees as well: “Long live Europe and long live a free and independent Ukraine. Slava Ukrainy”.
Earlier von der Leyen stated that Ukraine belongs in the European Union and the bloc wants the country to join.
On Feb. 28 President Zelensky together with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk signed Ukraine’s official EU membership bid. The European Parliament voted Tuesday to advance Ukraine’s application for membership, with 637 in favor, 13 against, and 26 choosing to abstain.
The expedited accession negotiation is poised to begin already this month.
