Europe plans to recognize Ukraine as a candidate for EU membership – the President of the European Parliament
The President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola stated that the EU recognizes Ukraine as a candidate for membership of the European Union and also promised that Member States will take part in the reconstruction of our country after the war. Metsola ascertained that the shelling of an orphanage in Mariupol as well as other illegal actions of the Russian Federation cannot go unpunished. According to her, no one will ever forget this because these are inhumane acts as Russia has violated peace and world order.
– Putin will not turn away from this. More sanctions are needed. They will be responsible for what they have done here in Ukraine. The second thing I want to promise is that the European Union recognizes Ukraine’s European ambitions and desire to be a candidate country for the EU membership. You can rely on the European Parliament to support your country’s plan to achieve this goal. We will not let you down. We know you will. There is no doubt in Ukraine’s European future, – said the European Parliament’s President.
She also reported that the EU will do everything possible to enable Ukrainians to return home and rebuild their homes.
– We will help you rebuild your cities and homes to overcome all the consequences of this ugly attack. We are already providing financial, humanitarian and military assistance, and we will continue to do so. We will organize a solidarity fund with Ukraine and a donors’ conference in order to continue providing assistance to Ukraine, Metsola promised.
She informed that Europe feels responsibility for Ukrainians who are at the forefront of the struggle for democracy.
– Today I represent the European Parliament and I want to note on behalf of the Europeans that we are with you – both in good times and not very good. What has been happening in your country in the last month is the destruction, death and innocent lives taken by war. But Europe like the whole world saw your valor and courage, your determination. You know, the heroes of Zmiyinyi Island are known all over the world. And now – proud soldiers and defenders of Mariupol will inspire further and further generations in the future. And I think we will soon see the triumph of hope and victory because you have shown that no attempt to intimidate or attack you will destroy your dignity, – said Roberta Metsola.
She pointed out that Russian President Vladimir Putin underestimated Ukraine and that his regime would “pay an unprecedented price” for it.
– Our sanctions will help in this… We will reduce our energy dependence on the Kremlin. Europe must seek zero gas purchases from Russia. This is of course an ambitious goal but it is necessary, – she said.
The President of the European Parliament emphasized that Europe also needs to work on information security.
