Finland Urges Support for Ukraine's EU Path, Seeing It as Crucial Step Away From Russian Influence

Ukraine has officially begun negotiations for European Union membership, a significant step that, while likely years away from completion, is deemed essential for both Ukraine and the broader European continent. This development comes as a direct consequence of Russia's full-scale invasion.

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Ukraine has begun negotiations for EU membership. Membership is very far away, but the negotiation process is necessary for both Ukraine and Europe.

The article posits that Russian President Vladimir Putin's initial war aims, including the removal of Ukraine's "Nazi government" and preventing its alignment with NATO and the EU, have backfired spectacularly. Instead of securing Ukraine within Russia's sphere of influence, Putin's actions have inadvertently accelerated Ukraine's integration with the West. The war has led to the expansion of NATO, with Finland and Sweden joining the alliance, moving it closer to Moscow's borders.

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Putin feared Ukraine's membership in the defense alliance Nato and the country's rapprochement with the European Union. In these justifications, it was no longer about Ukraine, but very much about Russia.

Putin's worldview, which discourages Russians from aspiring to Western living standards or values like democracy and human rights, is contrasted with Ukraine's clear desire for such principles. The article draws a parallel with Finland's own historical pursuit of EU membership in the early 2000s, which was driven by a desire to distance itself from Russian influence. This aspiration for greater autonomy and alignment with Western values is presented as a powerful motivator for Ukraine.

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In Putin's world, Russians are not supposed to long for a Western standard of living or Western values such as democracy or human rights. If Ukrainians were to receive such things, the example would be terrifying in Moscow's eyes: the infection could spread to Russia.

While acknowledging potential concerns within the EU regarding Ukraine's membership, such as its impact on agricultural competition, the article emphasizes the immense sacrifice Ukrainians are making. They are fighting and dying to defend not only their nation but also Europe from "terrorist imperialism." This sacrifice, it argues, should not be weighed against economic considerations. The eventual membership is seen as a long-term prospect, allowing ample time for adjustments and integration.

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To the good fortune of the West and especially Ukrainians, Putin has become a 'reverse Midas.' Almost everything he touches crumbles and turns to dust – not gold.