DISINFO: Charles Michel’s visit to Ukraine is of no importance
SUMMARY
Charles Michel’s visit to Ukraine is of no importance. No matter how the Ukrainian authorities perform, it is unlikely to affect Michel’s perception of Ukraine. EU leaders are people of double, if not triple, standards. Nothing depends on what Michel says in Ukraine. He will return to Europe and act otherwise.
RESPONSE
This is a recurrent disinformation message by pro-Kremlin media outlets on EU-Ukraine relations.
In reality, Kyiv is a priority partner for the European Union. EU leaders visit Ukraine to assess the situation and come up with recommendations about how to proceed with reform, fight against corruption and put Ukrainian legislation in line with European standards. In addition, Ukraine signed the Association Agreement with the European Union in 2014.
Consultations are also underway between Ukraine and the EU concerning Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and its support of the separatists in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donbas.
Since the Euromaidan Revolution of Dignity in 2014, Ukraine has taken essential steps in implementing complex reforms. The EU-Ukraine partnership is built on the principle that as long as Ukraine proceeds with reforms, the EU will keep supporting it.