Ukraine Flies the Flag for a More Assertive Europe
But the 27-member union will find some sacred cows easier to confront than others.
The Ukrainian flag flutters along side the European Union flag outside the European Parliament headquarters in Brussels this week.
Photographer: FRANCOIS WALSCHAERTS/AFPThe yellow and blue of Ukraine’s flag, which was banned during the Soviet era, has become a powerful global symbol after Russia’s invasion. It’s been beamed onto landmarks from New York to Sarajevo, splashed across social media, and waved during anti-war protests around the world.
It has also done a lot to bind members of the European Union and the NATO alliance together, in a moment of welcome geopolitical solidarity after a pandemic that hardened borders and national interests. Sanctions are piling up against Russia, refugees are being taken in, business and political ties are being cut, and financial and military support for Ukraine is flowing.