The Kremlin has long expressed concerns over Ukraine’s growing connections with Western nations, including discussions about joining NATO, using this as part of their initial reasoning for launching a full-scale invasion in February 2022.
“This acknowledges the determination, bravery, and hard work of both countries in pursuing reforms, even amidst significant challenges,” stated European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “And it highlights that the EU’s promise of peace, stability, and opportunity is unparalleled.”
Throughout the comprehensive war initiated by Russian President Vladimir Putin against Ukraine in 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently prioritized EU accession as a strategic goal to protect his country from future Russian interference.
“As stated, Ukraine is doing what is necessary, and it’s crucial that the EU is also fulfilling its promise,” Zelenskyy wrote in a post on X. “We also extend our congratulations to Moldova for this step, which we are taking together.”
In Moldova, the separatist region of Transnistria has remained under Russian military occupation since a ceasefire in 1992. In 2024, the Kremlin also attempted to interfere in Moldova’s presidential election, which eventually resulted in the pro-Western Maia Sandu maintaining her position in power.
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