The Western Balkans need a strong message from the European Union at a time of debate over Ukraine and Moldova's candidate status, German Foreign Minister Analena Berbok said today.

Speaking in Luxembourg ahead of the EU foreign ministers' meeting, Burbock said the bloc should start accession talks with Albania and the Republic of Northern Macedonia and send a clear signal to the Western Balkans.

According to her, the potential status of an EU candidate for Ukraine will be a "historic moment" for the bloc, and it must be made clear that Ukraine "belongs to Europe".

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The German foreign minister also warned that it would be "absolutely cynical" to postpone a decision on the future of Ukraine and Moldova in the bloc before the summit later this week, when EU leaders are expected to discuss the issue.

We are now at a time when we need to make a decision, Burbock said, warning that the EU should not "apologize and follow a model of postponing major decisions", added BTA.