[Richard White]

There is much talk of Ukraine joining the EU, and that is a good path for it to take when the conflict ends. However, there has been friction with existing member states, particularly in Eastern Europe, on talk of accelerated entry. The agricultural sector is a particular point of contention. This is nothing new, but expectations need to be managed within a framework of a pathway to eventual ascension. Security guarantees will be crucial for inward investment, as well as the return and resettlement of its 5 or 6 million refugees. Long, hard path I dare say.

That will not happen: Poland opposes accelerated EU accession for Ukraine

I agree with Ukraine joining the EU but accelerated entry needs to be off the table.

There needs to be due diligence not a rush to get it done because Russia is a threat.

 

[kEiThZ]

Ukraine doesn't have to be in the EU anytime soon. They just need support and steady integration over time that works towards that goal. That will help their economy. And really, it provides the buffer state the EU needs against a belligerent Russia.

 

[Lennox970]

In short, Ukraine needs to win the peace, as well as the war. A strong, well-disposed and prosperous buffer state is a sound medium-term solution.

I wouldn't underestimate the scale of the challenge across a whole range of issues (not least how the EU views the status of any occupied territory), but its trajectory needs to be westward.