The heads of state and government of the 27 European Union member states will gather in Brussels on Thursday for a pivotal summit addressing a range of pressing issues, including support for Ukraine, European defence capabilities, developments in the Middle East, competitiveness, housing, and migration.
A key focus of the summit will be reinforcing the EU’s long-term support for Ukraine. Leaders are expected to discuss concrete measures, including financial aid for the coming years, and will hear a virtual address from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The situation in the Middle East will also feature prominently on the agenda. EU leaders will review recent developments, including outcomes from the Sharm El-Sheikh Summit for Peace, with particular attention to the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Discussions will explore pathways toward a just and lasting peace based on a two-state solution, as well as reconstruction efforts in the region.
On the topic of European defence, the summit will examine the bloc’s readiness to address current and emerging security challenges. Leaders will deliberate on joint defence capability projects, governance structures, and responses to hybrid threats, such as drone attacks and airspace violations that have impacted member states.
As part of the EU’s digital and green transitions, leaders will address how to streamline regulatory frameworks, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and prevent the introduction of new administrative burdens. The summit will also include a strategic dialogue on meeting climate targets, enhancing industrial competitiveness, and ensuring digital sovereignty through the protection of critical infrastructure and promotion of open technologies.
Additionally, the growing housing crisis will be on the table, with leaders set to discuss measures to improve access to affordable housing—particularly for young people and the middle class.
(Inputs from WAM)
