Letting Ukraine into the EU will reinforce, not undermine, Europe’s security | Piotr Buras and Engjellushe Morina
www.theguardian.com
Many Europeans don’t realise that EU enlargement is the only way to counter China and Russia – but this week, leaders must act, say Piotr Buras and Engjellushe Morina of the European Council on Foreign Relations

Tried to give a good summary:

European politicians continuously restate that EU enlargement is necessary for geopolitical reasons. But they have not yet managed to bring European societies on board to support this view.

A plurality (37%, on average) of the citizens in the six countries surveyed by the ECFR believe that Ukraine should be able to join the EU – and this often includes people who are aware of the negative consequences of such an event. It seems that the emotional support for Ukrainians is still strong and outweighs rational considerations

There is no other way to underline the EU’s commitment to enlargement as a crucial geopolitical choice than to give clear commitments to Ukraine and other candidate countries.

At this week’s summit, it is imperative that leaders do not shy away from alarmist language and tough decisions.They should open negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, commit to necessary military support in 2024 and declare that the EU will prepare the next budget for enlargement.

The key measure of Ukraines victory, however, will not be the restoration of full control of its territory, but winning control of its future as a European, prosperous and democratic country. The EU is Ukraine’s only chance.