On Monday, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky formally requested that his country be inducted into the European Union.
In a video address in front of reporters the Ukrainian leader stated “We appeal to the European Union for the immediate accession of Ukraine via a new special procedure. We are grateful to our partners for being with us. But our goal is to be with all Europeans, and most importantly, to be equal.”
In an earlier appeal, videotaped on February 26, Zelensky had first asked for the EU to use its powers to allow Ukraine to join its ranks. “I say this as honestly as possible,” he implored, “the people of Ukraine have already earned and have the right to gain membership in the European Union.
Historic moment for Ukraine.
After striving to join the EU for almost two decades, President @ZelenskyyUa just signed a European Union membership application.
Unbelievable. pic.twitter.com/QIr8mGwAzn
— Sergei Perfiliev 🇺🇦 (@perfiliev) February 28, 2022
“This will be the key evidence of our country’s support. The crucial moment has come to close once and for all the long-term strategic discussions and to decide on Ukraine’s membership in the European Union.