EU ministers address Ukraine crisis, Schengen expansion
European Union interior ministers convened in Brussels on Monday to deliberate on the bloc's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the potential accession of Romania and Bulgaria to the Schengen Area.
In addition to these critical issues, the ministers delved into discussions regarding organised crime prevention, migration and asylum policies, and the EU's counterterrorism strategies.
Schengen Accession in Limbo
While the topic of Romania and Bulgaria's Schengen membership was on the Council meeting's agenda, no definitive decision regarding the two nations was anticipated. The Netherlands remains steadfast in its opposition to Bulgaria's Schengen inclusion, while Austria continues to obstruct Romania's entry. Interior ministers are scheduled to address the comprehensive implementation of Schengen regulations in these two countries during Tuesday's session.
Austria Blocks Romania's Bid
A year ago, Bucharest garnered the support of 26 member states, but Austria's unwavering opposition thwarted its Schengen aspirations.
Translation by Iurie Tataru