INTERNATIONAL: Ukraine has completed a questionnaire which will form a starting point for the European Union to decide on membership for Kyiv, Ihor Zhovkva, and deputy head of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's office, said.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen handed the questionnaire to Zelenskiy during their joint news conference in Kyiv on April 8th. She pledged a speedier than usual start to Ukraine's bid to become a member of the EU following Russia's invasion of the country, saying the process would take weeks rather than years.

Zhovkva also said the European Commission will need to issue a recommendation on Ukraine's compliance with the necessary membership criteria.

Zhovkva added that Ukraine expects to acquire the status of a candidate country for EU accession in June during a scheduled meeting of the European Council meeting.

“We understand that it is a formality on Ukraine’s path towards the European Union. We understand that our people deep in the souls and minds are part of Europe anyway for a long time. But nevertheless, each country has to take this path. Unfortunately, we are walking this path in tragic times. And many people who have European mentality are losing their lives, the most precious thing to have.” President, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, had said.

Eu Commission President, Ursula Von Der Leyen told reporters.

"In this envelope dear Volodymyr there is an important step towards EU membership. The questionnaire that is in here is the basis for our discussion in the coming weeks.

It is where your path towards Europe, the European Union begins."

The European Council is to meet June 23-24th, according to the Council's schedule on its website.