Putin says he is not opposed to Ukraine joining the European Union, because it is not a military alliance

The President of Russia, Vladimir Putinsaid today that he has nothing against Ukraine’s entry into the European Union (EU), since it is not a military organization or a military-political bloc like NATO.

“The European Union is not a military organization or a politico-military bloc, unlike the NATO. We have always said, and have always said, that our position is very consistent and clear on this. We have nothing against it,” he noted at the plenary session of the St. Petersburg Economic Forum.

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Putin however, he doubted that Ukraine can grow and restore a number of important industries just by integrating into the European Union.

“I don’t know if adherence to the European Union it can give a new impetus to the development of key areas of Ukraine,” he said.

“You will receive quite an important support for current expenses. This is unlikely to lead to the restoration of the lost aircraft industry, shipbuilding, electronics and other critical industries, because the European ‘giants’ will not create competitors for themselves,” he added.

The European Commission (EC) recommended this Friday to the Twenty-seven to first grant Ukraine a “European perspective” and, secondly, to give it the status of “candidate” to enter the community club if the country carries out “important reforms”.

Source: Elcomercio

Ronald Payne

I, Ronald Payne, am a journalist and author who dedicated his life to telling the stories that need to be said. I have over 7 years of experience as a reporter and editor, covering everything from politics to business to crime.