Brussels: EU leaders gathered in Brussels for the final summit of the year to address growing geoeconomic and security challenges, focusing on Europe's strategic competitiveness, defense readiness, and external relations amid ongoing crises in Ukraine and the Middle East. Leaders are assembling in Brussels to conclude Poland's six-month presidency of the Council and to tackle pressing issues affecting the region.
According to Anadolu Agency, the summit comes at a time of mounting global uncertainty, with EU heads of state and government seeking to reinforce the bloc's position while preparing for future shocks. The majority of leaders will arrive following a high-stakes NATO summit, where they pledged substantial increases in defense spending and worked to smooth over tensions with US President Donald Trump.
Strengthening European security and defense remains high on the agenda, as leaders assess progress on boosting the EU's defense capabilities by 2030. The meeting follows the NATO summit in The Hague, with EU members who are also NATO allies expected to align efforts on readiness and industrial capacity. European Council President Antonio Costa emphasized a collective approach to defense and security, focusing on efficient spending.
Amid growing concerns about economic fragmentation and global trade tensions, leaders are expected to address Europe's long-term competitiveness and industrial resilience. Discussions are likely to focus on strengthening the EU's strategic autonomy, bolstering critical supply chains, and maintaining a level playing field in global trade, especially in light of recent geopolitical tensions affecting global markets.
The summit is also set to tackle the issue of threatened US tariffs. Trump has criticized Spain for insufficient defense spending and hinted at additional tariffs. France's president accused Trump of launching a trade war against traditional allies. The US currently maintains a 10% tariff on most EU goods, with higher rates on specific sectors like cars and steel/aluminum. A looming deadline of July 9 approaches, with Trump threatening to raise reciprocal tariffs to 50% if a deal isn't reached.
EU leaders are expected to reiterate their unwavering support for Ukraine, discussing Ukraine's path toward EU membership and military support. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to join the summit via video conference. Options to increase pressure on Russia, including calls for a "meaningful ceasefire and genuine negotiations," will be explored. Members will debate an 18th package of sanctions on Russia and the future of the price cap on Russian oil.
The summit will also address the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and the risk of further regional escalation. EU leaders are expected to underline the need for de-escalation, humanitarian access, and support for a two-state solution. Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin plans to raise the revision of the EU-Israel Association Agreement and sanctions on Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank.
Migration remains a key issue, with leaders set to follow up on previous agreements and assess progress on securing external borders. The European Commission is expected to provide input on operational measures and long-term migration management. Leaders will discuss strengthening the EU's overall preparedness, including civil protection, crisis management, and resilience against hybrid activities.
The summit will conclude with a statement that will shape the EU's agenda for the next four months and serve as a barometer of Europe's political mood on key regional and global challenges.