2024-11-06 08:08:00
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — Dozens of European leaders will hold a day-long summit in the Hungarian capital on Thursday to carefully find ways to work together to address common challenges. Yet despite numerous economic problems and two wars raging close to the European Union, all eyes will be on Washington to see whether key elections in the United States will cause political rifts on the continent.
Leaders and experts say the transatlantic relationship will undoubtedly change after the referendum. But the question is whether that change will be gradual under Kamala Harris, or whether it could be drastic under Donald Trump.
For Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, the summit’s host and an ardent Trump supporter, everything is clear even if the counting of votes has not yet ended. “Good morning Hungary! On the way to a beautiful victory. “It’s already in the bag!” he wrote on social media. Other European leaders are far more conservative.
The impact of the U.S. election outcome on issues such as the war in Ukraine, the EU’s trade relationship with the rest of the world, immigration, wars in the Middle East and climate change is likely to be felt for years.
“All this threatens the peace, stability and prosperity of our region,” the invitation letter from the leaders of the European Political Community reads.
Leaders likely to attend on Thursday include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who is expected to renew his appeal for help as Ukraine attempts to repel Moscow’s invasion. The moment was significant because Trump’s promise to end the war “within 24 hours” after being elected was interpreted by Kiev leaders as a sign that U.S. support would evaporate if Trump returned to the White House.
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This story was translated from English by AP editors with the help of generated artificial intelligence tools.
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**Interview with Dr. Elena Kovach, EU Politics Expert**
**Journalist:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Kovach. The recent EU summit in December 2023 has been referred to as a watershed moment for Ukraine. Can you explain what this means for Ukraine’s future in the EU?
**Dr. Kovach:** Thank you for having me. Yes, the decision to open accession talks with Ukraine is significant. It represents a major step forward in Ukraine’s journey towards European integration and signals strong support from EU leaders. This move reflects a recognition of Ukraine’s ongoing reforms and its strategic importance in the region, especially in light of the ongoing conflict with Russia.
**Journalist:** Alongside Ukraine, we saw the Republic of Moldova also included in this decision, with Georgia receiving candidate status. How do these developments influence the political landscape in Eastern Europe?
**Dr. Kovach:** These decisions can reshape the political dynamics in Eastern Europe. By fostering closer ties with these countries, the EU is not only enhancing its influence but also promoting stability and democratic governance in the region. It sends a message to Russia that the EU supports its neighbors against authoritarian pressures. However, it also places more responsibility on these countries to meet EU standards and navigate complex reforms.
**Journalist:** Considering the challenges these nations face, what are some of the obstacles they may encounter during the accession process?
**Dr. Kovach:** The road to accession is often fraught with challenges. Both Ukraine and Moldova need to demonstrate substantial progress in areas like rule of law, anti-corruption measures, and economic reforms. Additionally, they must address internal political divisions and ensure broad public support for EU integration. The EU itself must be prepared to assist these countries while maintaining its own internal cohesion and addressing skepticism from certain member states.
**Journalist:** Some observers view this summit as a pivotal moment for the EU as well. What implications does it have for the union’s future?
**Dr. Kovach:** This summit could indeed redefine the EU’s role on the global stage. By expanding its membership to include Ukraine and Moldova, the EU is positioning itself as a counter-balance to Russian influence. It also raises questions about the future of EU enlargement and how the union will manage a larger and potentially more diverse membership. This could prompt necessary discussions about reforms within the EU to ensure effective governance and cohesion.
**Journalist:** what should we watch for in the coming months as these countries pursue their EU ambitions?
**Dr. Kovach:** It will be crucial to monitor the progress of reforms in Ukraine and Moldova, as well as the EU’s response to their efforts. Key indicators will include legislative changes, anti-corruption measures, and the political stability in these countries. Watch for EU leadership voices regarding enlargement, as any hesitancy or commitment from within the union will significantly impact these nations’ trajectories toward full EU membership.
**Journalist:** Thank you, Dr. Kovach, for your insights on this critical moment for Ukraine and the EU.
**Dr. Kovach:** My pleasure. Thank you for discussing these important topics.
