Lack of Progress on Ukraine's EU Accession
The latest European Commission report highlights ongoing issues in Ukraine's EU accession process, focusing on corruption and the intimidation of journalists.
Military and Humanitarian Challenges
Ukraine faces severe difficulties on the battlefield, particularly in the ongoing battle for Pokrovsk, where the situation appears unfavorable. Additionally, months of intense Russian airstrikes targeting vital infrastructure have weakened Ukraine's energy resilience.
According to the United Nations, these attacks risk triggering a significant humanitarian crisis in an already war-affected country.
Geopolitical Developments
The geopolitical outlook remains bleak. Despite Kyiv's months-long requests, the US President, Donald Trump, has once again rejected the delivery of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine.
Following a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea on October 30, Trump announced that the US and China would cooperate to end the war in Ukraine. However, the likelihood of a constructive Trump-Xi partnership to resolve the conflict is minimal.
“The possibility of a productive collaboration between Trump and Xi on peace in Ukraine, let alone its successful conclusion, is remote.”
Moreover, a visit by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin to China on November 3 and 4 demonstrated China’s unwavering support for Russia, vital in maintaining the Kremlin’s war efforts.
“Beijing showed no signs of backing out of its partnership with Russia, which is key to sustaining the Kremlin’s war machine.”
Author's Summary
Ukraine's progress toward EU accession faces setbacks amid military struggles, energy insecurity, and complex geopolitical dynamics undermining Western support and peace efforts.