The European Commission’s recommendation that Ukraine start formal talks to become a member of the EU afforded a rare moment of joy to a country fighting off an invasion by Russia, Olga Stefanishyna, Ukrainian deputy prime minister, said Thursday.

“Ukraine inspired Europe” and the EU “returned the faith,” added Stefanishyna, whose portfolio includes European and Euro-Atlantic integration.

However, much work remains ahead of a December European Council meeting, at which EU leaders will decide whether to back the Commission’s advice.