The Netherlands and Denmark oppose giving Ukraine EU candidate status
Denmark notes in diplomatic note that Ukraine “does not meet the criteria for candidate status”
By the end of next week, the European Commission is expected to formally recommend that Ukraine be granted EU candidate status. It is reported by Bloomberg, citing anonymous sources. According to sources, along with this recommendation, Ukraine will be subject to conditions and requirements in the fight against corruption and the rule of law.
The agency notes that the recommendation of the European Commission is an important step, but the decision on the status will be made by the leaders of the EU (European Union) countries.
Problems
Most EU countries, including the Baltic states, Poland and Italy, support Ukraine morally and support its status. According to Bloomberg, Germany wants a conditional status and a promise to meet certain requirements. The Netherlands and Denmark think that Ukraine is not ready for this status.
According to the agency, Denmark notes in a diplomatic note that Ukraine “does not meet the criteria for candidate status.” According to Copenhagen, Kiev has problems with the stability of democratic institutions, the rule of law, human rights, respect for minorities and their protection. According to the document, the Ukrainian government must “improve the legislative and institutional framework” in order to make progress in these areas.
Candidate status for Ukraine will be discussed at the EU summit on June 23-24.
Earlier, members of the European Parliament adopted a resolution on foreign policy and policy in the field of security and defense of the EU “after Russia’s aggressive war against Ukraine.” The document calls on the European Commission and the EU Council to grant Ukraine the status of a candidate for EU membership.
Moldova and Georgia
The resolution also mentions “European trends in Moldova and Georgia.” Following Ukraine, these countries have applied for EU membership. However, the document does not provide recommendations for granting them candidate status.
Ukraine applied for EU membership immediately after Russia’s aggression. On May 9, the second part of the questionnaire was submitted to the EU. This application form must be completed in order to receive candidate status.
President of France Emmanuel Macron and the Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz Ukraine’s accession to the EU could take years. Prime Minister of Italy Mario Draghi He said that senior members of the EU do not support the candidacy of Ukraine. German Foreign Minister Annalena Berbok He called for Ukraine to be granted EU candidate status “without concessions”.