Assessing Ukraine's EU Membership Bid: Report Due Nov. 8

The European Union's executive is set to present an assessment of Ukraine's progress in its membership bid on November 8, which will be a crucial factor in the bloc's decision on whether to start accession talks with Kyiv. A positive recommendation is expected for Ukraine, possibly with additional conditions related to fighting corruption and protecting minority rights. Similar recommendations could also come for Moldova, while the status of Georgia as a formal candidate is still uncertain. The EU is considering providing additional financial assistance to the Western Balkans, including Ukraine, through a review of the bloc's shared budget.