Ukraine now a candidate for European Union membership, bloc decides

The European Union has agreed to make Ukraine a candidate for EU membership, setting in motion a potentially years-long process that could pull the embattled country further away from Russia’s influence and bind it more closely to the West.

Ukraine applied for EU membership less than a week after Moscow invaded on Feb. 24.

Read more: Ukrainian prisoner of war accuses Russia of torture

2:43 European leaders meet in Brussels to formally accept Ukraine’s EU candidacy

The decision by the leaders of the 27-nation bloc to grant Ukraine candidate status Thursday was uncharacteristically rapid for the EU.

But the war and Ukraine’s request for fast-track consideration lent urgency to its cause.

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The EU also granted candidate status to Moldova, which borders Ukraine.

2:07 What’s next for Ukraine as EU supports bid to join bloc?

Gaining membership could take years or even decades. Countries must meet a detailed host of economic and political conditions, including a commitment to the rule of law and other democratic principles.

Ukraine will have to curb government corruption and adopt other reforms.