The European Union has officially announced the launch of accession talks with Ukraine, marking a crucial step that bolsters confidence in the future of the Ukrainian state.

This comes as Moscow makes gains on the ground nearly two and a half years after the start of the Russian invasion.

The negotiations commenced at an international governmental conference in Luxembourg, with Moldova expected to begin its talks later the same day, as reported by the Associated Press.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal described the start of the talks in a video statement as a “historic day,” representing a new chapter in his country’s relations with the European Union.