(IntegrityPress.org) – The recent decision by the European Union (EU) to begin membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova has been met with criticism from Russia. The Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, stated that these negotiations could destabilize the EU and that neither Ukraine nor Moldova currently meet the strict criteria for accession. He described the EU’s decision as a politicized move to demonstrate support for these countries.
This announcement came shortly after EU leaders agreed to start entry talks with Ukraine despite the ongoing conflict with Russia. However, the EU could not reach a consensus on a 50 billion euro financial aid package for Kyiv due to opposition from Hungary. Peskov commended Hungary for defending its national interests, stating that Russia was impressed by their stance.
These remarks from Peskov followed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s marathon press conference, during which he criticized Europe for aligning with the United States in supporting Ukraine. Putin praised Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for protecting his national interests and accused the West of preventing Russia from establishing normal relations with Ukraine.
While some in Kyiv welcomed the EU’s decision to hold entry talks, others expressed doubts about Ukraine’s ability to join the bloc while still at war. The ongoing hostilities make it unlikely that Ukraine will be accepted into the EU until the conflict is resolved. The people of Ukraine recognize the need for international aid to win the war and stress that they cannot fight the colossus alone.
The EU’s announcement faced opposition from Hungarian Prime Minister Orban, who threatened to veto a 50-billion-euro funding package from the EU budget for Ukraine. In addition, Republican lawmakers in the United States blocked President Joe Biden’s request for additional emergency aid for Ukraine and Israel.
Despite these challenges, Ukrainians have differing opinions regarding their reliance on international support. While some believe Ukraine should focus on resolving its issues and standing on its own, others argue that the country needs assistance from Europe and the world to overcome the conflict.
Putin’s recent press conference indicated that the war in Ukraine is unlikely to end soon. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding Russia’s existence and referred to the denazification and demilitarization of Ukraine as goals that have not changed. Putin also addressed the Israel-Hamas conflict, stating that it could not be compared to the situation in Ukraine and that Russia would provide humanitarian aid to Gaza.
In conclusion, the EU’s decision to initiate membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova has drawn criticism from Russia. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and opposition from Hungary have posed challenges to Ukraine’s potential accession to the EU. While some Ukrainians welcome international support, others emphasize the need for self-reliance. Putin’s press conference indicated that the war in Ukraine is far from over, highlighting the importance of safeguarding Russia’s interests.
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