The Guardian view on Ukraine and the EU: accession talks mean the glass is half-full

Ukrainian troops train near Kyiv. ‘Ukraine has always had to fight a political as well as a military war.’ Photograph: Sergey Dolzhenko/EPA

When tens of thousands of lives have been lost, and Ukrainians remain under Russian occupation or assault, it seems perverse to focus on symbolism. The harsh reality is that the country faces another cold, bleak winter, locked in a military stalemate, with more wounded soldiers and grieving families. It needs massive material support to continue its fight.

Yet the EU’s agreement to open membership talks with Ukraine – and Moldova – on Thursday is nonetheless welcome and important. While the path to accession is in reality long and winding, this decision reaffirms solidarity with Kyiv. Volodymyr Zelenskiy greeted it as a triumph for both his country and Europe: “A victory that motivates, inspires, and strengthens.”