Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
EU leaders began discussions in Brussels on Thursday to discuss geoeconomic challenges and ongoing developments in Ukraine and the Middle East. They also discussed European defense and security, migration, preparedness, and internal security. EU President António Costa said, "We will address many issues that must be addressed together to advance our shared ambitions: building a more competitive, secure, and independent Europe for our citizens, and ensuring that the EU is an effective, reliable, and predictable global player."
Ukraine
EU leaders will assess recent developments related to Russian aggression against Ukraine.
To this end, they will discuss how to further support peace efforts, in cooperation with partners, including applying greater pressure on Russia to accept a meaningful ceasefire and demonstrate a genuine willingness to negotiate. They will also address Ukraine's path toward EU membership. EU President António Costa said, "The European Council welcomes all efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine. To date, the EU has provided Ukraine with nearly €158.6 billion, including €59.6 billion in military support. Ukraine has consistently made tireless efforts to enable a genuine peace process. The EU will remain equally steadfast in its support for Ukraine."
Developments in the Middle East
EU leaders will address the latest developments in the Middle East, particularly the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the dangerous escalation between Israel and Iran that threatens to destabilize the region. In this regard, the EU President said, "I call on all parties to exercise restraint and respect international law and nuclear safety. Diplomacy remains the only way to achieve peace and security in the Middle East. Too many civilians will fall victim to further escalation."
European Defense and Security
The EU is accelerating its efforts to strengthen its defense readiness to meet current and future challenges.
At the last European Council meeting, leaders called for accelerating all aspects of work to strengthen Europe's defense readiness by 2030.
"From now on, we must be guided by a collective approach to defense and security, focusing on efficient spending," according to statements by EU President António Costa.
The EU in the World and Competitiveness
The interaction between the challenging international context and the EU's internal economic priorities, such as the completion of the single market, is more important than ever. Leaders will discuss the geoeconomic challenges facing Europe and address the EU's global standing and competitiveness in a single debate. The leaders will discuss global economic developments and the relationship the EU seeks to strengthen with its key partners, including preparations for upcoming important international summits. They will also discuss opportunities to strengthen the international role of the euro and deepen the single market.
Migration
Migration and strengthening security at the external borders remain key priorities for the European Council.
During the meeting, the leaders will follow up on previous conclusions and review progress made in light of the Commission President's contribution to her message. Migration and Asylum (Background Information)
Moldova
EU leaders will discuss the situation in Moldova and its EU accession process, in preparation for the first EU-Moldova Summit, scheduled to take place in Chisinau on July 4.
The EU strongly supports Moldova's sovereignty, territorial integrity, resilience, and economic development.
Western Balkans
Leaders will exchange views on the situation in the Western Balkans, in particular the EU's support for the partners' reform efforts and their European paths. This discussion follows President Costa's visit to the region from 12 to 16 May 2025. President Costa reaffirmed the EU's commitment to the Western Balkans.
Internal Security, Preparedness, and Hybrid Activities
The European Council will discuss strengthening the EU's internal security efforts, its preparedness to respond to crises and threats, and hybrid activities.