EU weighs safeguards as Ukraine pushes connection
EU leaders are expected to discuss the proposals at a summit next week.
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EU leaders are expected to discuss the proposals at a summit next week.
STRASBOURG (AFP) — The European Commission is set to unveil proposals Tuesday aimed at keeping the European Union (EU) workable as Ukraine and other countries push for membership.
Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine accelerated efforts to expand the bloc, with Ukraine and Moldova joining Montenegro and Albania among the frontrunners for membership.
Montenegro is pushing to become the EU’s 28th member next year, while Albania is also advancing its bid.
But the prospect of adding new members, particularly Ukraine, has raised concerns over the EU’s budget, agricultural subsidies and decision-making.
Diplomats expect the commission to propose safeguards that could include restrictions on new members’ use of veto powers in key areas and limits on access to subsidies under the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy.
The proposals could also include stronger safeguards against democratic and rule-of-law backsliding.
“We must make sure we do not let in Trojan horses,” EU enlargement commissioner Marta Kos said in August.
“Such measures are a must-have, not a nice-to-have. This is crucial to build confidence and unity inside our Union to accept new members.”
EU leaders are expected to discuss the proposals at a summit next week.
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