The Ministerial Council of the Energy Community has allowed Ukraine to operate large combustion plants without complying with strict environmental emission standards until the end of 2028. This decision will support the energy system during the war and ensure supply stability.
The European Union has imposed sanctions against 41 vessels of Russia's "shadow fleet. " This decision was made within the framework of the sanctions regime for Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine.
The European Parliament has finally approved a phased rejection of Russian gas imports by the end of 2027. The ban on imports of Russian liquefied natural gas on the EU spot market will come into effect at the beginning of 2026, and pipeline gas imports will cease by September 30, 2027.
The European Parliament will fast-track consideration of a proposal for a reparations loan for Ukraine, which will be secured by European Commission borrowings against frozen Russian assets. The vote will take place at the plenary session in January 2026.
Canadian defense manufacturers will be able to access loans under the EU's SAFE program totaling 150 billion euros, with a limit of 80% of the value of purchased equipment. This is a significant increase compared to the usual 35% for manufacturers from third countries, with Canada also paying an entry fee.
Italy, Belgium, Malta, and Bulgaria have opposed the EU's plan to transfer 210 billion euros of frozen Russian assets to Ukraine. They are calling on the European Commission to consider alternative options for financial assistance, such as joint EU debt.
The EU Council has agreed to apply a fixed duty of 3 euros on parcels worth up to 150 euros imported into the EU, starting from July 1, 2026. This measure aims to eliminate unfair competition and risks for consumers.
The EU has agreed to tighten migration rules, which include accelerating deportations and reducing social benefits for rejected asylum seekers. An annual Solidarity Fund of 420 million euros is also being created for 2026 to support member states most affected by migration pressure.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy believes that Cyprus' presidency of the EU Council in 2026 could be historic for Ukraine regarding the opening of negotiation clusters. He also thanked Cyprus for its support and emphasized the need for a new package of sanctions against Russia.
Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides has arrived in Ukraine on an official visit. He is preparing for the country's upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The European Union has agreed on final rules that provide for a gradual cessation of Russian natural gas imports. A full embargo on supplies will come into force by the end of 2027 after approval by the EU Council and the European Parliament.
EU officials do not expect new sanctions against Russia before the holidays, and discussions on the 20th sanctions package are reportedly not expected to begin until January. This package will reportedly focus on closing loopholes, particularly in the export of natural rubber, which is used in Russia's defense industry.
European politicians have agreed to improve the welfare of cats and dogs, as well as to track their origin. The document establishes minimum rules for all member states regarding microchipping, registration, and the prohibition of mutilation.
European leaders will gather on December 18 for the last EU summit in 2025 to address Ukraine's funding, aiming to avoid a funding shortfall by mid-next year. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for coordinated action, warning of costly alternatives.
On November 17, the EU Council approved an updated mechanism for suspending visa-free travel for citizens of third countries. The amended rules will allow the EU to react more quickly to abuses of the visa-free regime, including new grounds for activation and a simplified launch of the mechanism.
The sanctions include asset freezes and a ban on entry into the EU. In addition, EU individuals and organizations are prohibited from providing them with funds, financial assets, or economic resources.
The Council of the European Union has approved amendments to Ukraine's Plan under the Ukraine Facility program, adopted by the government in August 2025. The amendments concerned the adjustment of the implementation deadlines for certain steps, while Ukraine's commitments remained unchanged.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to attend a meeting of the European Council, where further support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia will be discussed. EU leaders will also consider financial assistance, including the use of frozen Russian assets.
The European Parliament supported the start of negotiations with the EU Council on a ban on the import of Russian gas and oil. This decision is aimed at protecting the EU's interests from Russia's use of energy resources for military purposes.
The EU Council and the European Parliament have agreed on the European Defense Industry Program (EDIP) for €1. 5 billion for 2025-2027. The program provides €300 million to support Ukraine and cooperate with Ukrainian companies.
The German University of Bonn has restricted access for Russian students to certain modules of the master's programs "Cybersecurity" and "Computer Science" due to sanctions. These students can continue their studies by choosing alternative modules and will receive individual consultations.
The EU Council discussed the future defense readiness roadmap, which will define goals and objectives until 2030. The document will be adopted on October 16 and presented on October 23, 2025.
The European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning Russia's violations of EU airspace and interference with infrastructure, demanding coordinated action and sanctions. The resolution calls for the creation of a European Defense Union and cooperation with Ukraine.
The European Parliament has voted for a more flexible mechanism to suspend visa-free travel to the EU, including hybrid threats and 'golden passports' as grounds. The legislation, unofficially agreed upon earlier, was approved by 518 votes in favor and will enter into force after official adoption by the EU Council.
People's Deputy Fedir Venislavsky stated that the funds allocated for Ukraine's defense are significantly less than the real needs of the security sector. The parliament prioritizes supporting the defense sector, seeking sources of revenue for the budget.
Negotiation clusters for Ukraine's accession to the EU could start after the parliamentary elections in Hungary in April 2026. Hungary is blocking the opening of the first negotiation cluster, despite Ukraine fulfilling all preconditions.
On September 28, Moldovan citizens will vote in parliamentary elections that will decide whether the country maintains its course towards the EU or leans towards Russia. Large-scale disinformation campaigns supported by the Kremlin are creating a tense situation, and President Maia Sandu is urging citizens not to succumb to manipulation.
Lithuania has extended temporary protection for Ukrainians fleeing the war until March 4, 2027. The Lithuanian government made this decision on September 24, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The EU Council has adopted recommendations for Ukrainians, which provide for a gradual exit from temporary protection and a transition to other residence permits. The document also includes support for return and reintegration in Ukraine.
The EU Council has adopted a recommendation on the transition of Ukrainians from temporary protection to other residence statuses, as well as on their sustainable return and reintegration into Ukraine. This recommendation prepares the EU for a coordinated approach when conditions in Ukraine allow for the lifting of temporary protection.
