EU weighs historic expansion, but faces tough questions on enlarged bloc's future shape
-
EU members now agree it's time to expand the bloc, prompted by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Candidates include Ukraine, Moldova, and Western Balkan states.
-
But the EU first needs to figure out how an enlarged bloc would function, like decision-making with more members. Proposed reforms could reduce power of big countries like France and Germany.
-
Adding agricultural powerhouse Ukraine would shift EU budget priorities. Members have already clashed over Ukrainian grain exports.
-
An enlarged EU may need a looser structure, with some "associate members" and cooperation forums like the European Political Community.
-
Though the EU aims for enlargement by 2030, the process will be long and challenging. The bloc is only at the start of this complex debate.