Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the 'critical' decision from the European Union and described it as a 'unique' and 'historical moment' for the future of his war-torn nation.
Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko said Ukraine has paid a"high price" for this chance, referencing to the thousands of civilians that have been killed, injured or displaced.
"I am convinced that they will all move as swiftly as possible and work as hard as possible to implement the necessary reforms," she said. While the announcement will be largely celebrated around the globe, it could take some years before Ukraine is accepted as a member into the 27-nation bloc. To become part of the EU, members will consider whether Ukraine has a stable, democratic government, respects human rights and has a free market economy.
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