Ukraine completes the questionnaire to apply to join the EU

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (centre) signs an application to join the European Union (EU) on February 28 – Photo: REUTERS

“Today, I can say that the document has been completed by the Ukrainian side,” Zhovkva told Ukrainian television on the evening of April 17.

According to Reuters news agency, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented the above questionnaire to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during her visit to Kiev on April 8.

Ms. von der Leyen also pledged to speed up the process for Ukraine to become an EU member after Russia launched a special military operation in this neighboring country.

After receiving the completed questionnaire from the Ukrainian side, the European Commission (EC) will have to make recommendations on whether Kiev meets the necessary criteria to join the EU.

Mr. Zhovkva hopes Ukraine will get its candidate for EU membership next June, during the EC’s scheduled meeting. The EC is expected to meet on June 23 and 24.

“Next, we’ll need to start the (EU) accession talks. Once we hold those talks, we’ll probably be ready to talk about full Ukraine membership. in the EU,” added Deputy Chief of the Office of the President of Ukraine.

Becoming an EU member means a lot to Ukraine. A provision in the EU treaty states that if one member becomes the victim of armed aggression, other EU states are obligated to aid and assist in any way they can.

Earlier, on February 28, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed an application to join the EU, just days after Russia announced a special military operation in this neighboring country.