The European Union’s decision to start accession talks with Ukraine represents a symbolic victory rather than a practical one. With Ukraine struggling to secure crucial aid, and its counteroffensive failing to achieve its objectives, it is time to redefine what constitutes a Ukrainian victory and a Russian defeat.
WASHINGTON, DC – It took European Union leaders eight hours – a relatively short time, by EU standards – to agree to start accession negotiations with Ukraine. While this decision represents a major victory for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, it came at a high cost, as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán blocked the disbursement of €50 billion ($55 billion) in aid that Ukraine desperately needs to defend itself. As the war approaches its second anniversary, Europe finds itself in a double bind.
WASHINGTON, DC – It took European Union leaders eight hours – a relatively short time, by EU standards – to agree to start accession negotiations with Ukraine. While this decision represents a major victory for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, it came at a high cost, as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán blocked the disbursement of €50 billion ($55 billion) in aid that Ukraine desperately needs to defend itself. As the war approaches its second anniversary, Europe finds itself in a double bind.