Ukraine’s a step closer to joining the EU. Here’s what it means, and why it matters

Ukraine got a green light Thursday to start sped-up talks on joining the European Union. That’s a big boost for war-ravaged Ukraine and a loud message to Vladimir Putin — but it could be years before the country actually becomes a member of the EU.

Here’s a look at what Thursday’s decision means, and why joining the EU is especially important, and especially hard, for Ukraine.

WHAT IS THE EU AND HOW DO YOU JOIN?

The European Union was born after World War II as a trading