The Commission’s blessing is just the first step on a long road. The final decision will be in the hands of European Union leaders, who will meet June 23 and 24 in Brussels to tackle the thorny question.
Tag: von der Leyen, Ursula
Momentum in Ukraine Is Shifting in Russia’s Favor
With the Ukrainians running short of guns and ammunition, and pressures growing on Western governments, Moscow’s fortunes may be rising.
In Concession to Poland, E.U. Opens Door to Frozen Funds
About $38 billion earmarked for Poland from a coronavirus recovery fund had been blocked over judicial disputes. But relations with the bloc improved over Poland’s strong stance against Russia.
Forces Battle for Ukraine City, as E.U. Ratchets Up Responses
As Russian forces advanced into Sievierodonetsk, Ukraine’s allies promised increased aid, a sharp drop in Russian oil imports and efforts to ship Ukrainian grain out of the country.
As Ukraine Fights, Does the E.U. Owe It Membership?
Brussels supports Kyiv’s battle against Russia, but gaining full membership to the bloc could take years. Is there another way to bind Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia to Europe?
Russia Is Accused of Using Food as ‘Blackmail’ in Ukraine War
The West is reluctant to risk a direct military confrontation with Russia, and the world’s food distribution network is already creaky because of pandemic-related supply disruptions.
Putin Could Use Russia’s Victory Day to Expand Ukraine War, Some Fear
The Russian holiday celebrating the Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany is viewed by Ukraine and NATO as a stage for the Russian president to proclaim a turn in the war.
European Union Takes a Leap With a Russian Oil Embargo
The ban, once seen as unlikely, is a significant tightening of the squeeze on Russia’s economy, and a financial blow to Europe, too.
E.U. Says the Emergency Phase of the Pandemic Is Over
The bloc recommended focusing on vaccination, surveillance and testing in preparation for a possible fall wave. E.U. states can still make their own policies.
Europe Reluctantly Readies Russian Oil Embargo
Officials are drafting a phased import ban on Russian oil products, but the measure won’t be floated until after the second round of the French elections at the earliest.