KYIV, Ukraine, Dec 15, 2023 (BSS/AFP) - President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday said the European Union's decision to open accession talks with Ukraine was "a victory" for his war-torn country and "all of Europe".

"A victory that motivates, inspires, and strengthens," he posted on X, formerly Twitter. "History is made by those who don't get tired of fighting for freedom."

Kyiv had feared Hungarian President Viktor Orban would veto the start of accession talks, but EU Council President Charles Michel said Thursday that the EU had agreed to open talks with Ukraine and Moldova.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Shmygal said the EU's decision showed that it "highly appreciated the reforms we have made in recent years and the implementation of all the recommendations of the European Commission."

"A difficult path lies ahead. We are united and ready to pass it as quickly as possible," he said.