Ukraine, EU expand simplified visa rules

Ukraine and the European Union amended a visa facilitation agreement yesterday in Brussels, Foreign Minister Konstantin Hrishchenko announced yesterday on Twitter. The changes expand the categories of Ukrainian citizens that can apply for EU visas under the so-called simplified procedure to include representatives of trade unions, social, religious and charitable organizations.

Brad Wells: The new visa agreement sparked some debate in the EU, with certain quarters against the new deal over recent concerns about democratic backsliding and the rule of law in Ukraine. We view the signing as a positive development for the local government, indicating it has been able to keep diplomatic channels open and productive with the EU in the face of criticism. We do not expect many other breakthroughs in the near future though, particularly on the landmark Association Agreement, unless Ukrainian officials change tack, which we believe they are unlikely to do at this point.