AssetID: 55196223
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: New EU Members Could Join Without Full Voting Rights Under Proposed Reform
Caption: New EU Members Could Join Without Full Voting Rights Under Proposed Reform. The EU is considering a plan to let countries like Ukraine and Moldova join without full voting rights, aiming to overcome resistance from Hungary and other sceptical members. Under the proposal, new entrants would enjoy most membership benefits but temporarily give up veto powers until internal reforms make EU decision-making more efficient. Backed by Austria, Sweden, and Germany, the idea is seen as a way to unblock stalled enlargement talks without changing the bloc’s founding treaties. “Future members should waive their right of veto until reforms are complete,” said German lawmaker Anton Hofreiter, calling the plan both “constructive and viable.” The move could allow Ukraine and Western Balkan states to join sooner, providing a boost to pro-EU governments frustrated by years of delay. “Waiting is not an option,” said Ukraine’s deputy prime minister Taras Kachka, warning that further delays would play into Russia’s hands. The proposal also seeks to prevent Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán from blocking Ukraine’s accession and other EU decisions. While Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supports expansion, leaders remain cautious, with the upcoming Brussels summit expected to sidestep enlargement talks. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: Current Affairs & Politics,European Union,Ukraine,enlargement,Viktor Orbán,Anton Hofreiter,Ursula von der Leyen,Taras Kachka,Western Balkans,Hungary
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