Ukraine and Moldova will become EU candidates after the heads of state and government vote

The European Union (EU) has confirmed that Ukraine and Moldova have been granted candidate status for the political group, following a vote between the political group’s leaders.

The request for Ukraine and its neighboring country Moldova was accelerated by EU leaders after the Russian invasion on February 24.

Ukraine submitted the initial application less than a week after the outbreak of the crisis.

Joining the EU would further remove Ukraine from Russia’s influence and tie it more closely to the West.

It usually takes years for the parliamentary group to process an application.

Countries are expected to meet a number of conditions to become a member.

For example, Ukraine is expected to commit to curbing government corruption and implement a range of other reforms.

However, in the case of Ukraine and Moldova, this process was severely curtailed to support the two nations amidst the Russian invasion.

Although Moldova itself has not been attacked, it is in a precarious position due to its position as one of the poorest countries in Europe on the border with Ukraine.

Despite being one of the poorest places in Europe, the country has taken in over 100,000 Ukrainian refugees since the war began.

The two countries see many advantages in joining the political organization.

For example, it allows access to a market of 450 million people, while citizens of an EU member state are also entitled to free movement between EU countries.

The move didn’t seem to bother Russian President Vladimir Putin, who was quoted as saying “we have no objections” as the EU is not a military pact.

Ukraine’s request was backed by the European Parliament, which called on the EU to grant membership “without delay”.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said: “It will strengthen Ukraine, it will strengthen Europe. It is a choice for freedom and democracy and puts us on the right side of history.”

European officials have said that Ukraine has so far adopted about 70% of the EU’s rules and standards before gaining full membership, but have stressed the need for action against government corruption and economic reforms.

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said: “Substantial efforts are needed, particularly in the fight against corruption and in building an effective rule of law.

“But I am convinced that the (post-war) reconstruction of Ukraine in particular offers opportunities to take important steps forward.”