European Council
Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar said that Budapest does not support the expedited accession of any candidate country to the EU. The Union’s budget will be supported provided that it benefits Hungary.
The European Commission has not yet received a letter from four countries regarding Russia's frozen assets. The issue of a reparations loan remains on the agenda.
The EU aims to prepare a joint response to Russia’s hybrid threats by 2030. New sources of funding are being considered for this purpose.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said that Ukraine must fulfill all the conditions for EU accession without exceptions. However, he is ready to share his integration experience.
On Ukraine’s Independence Day, iconic structures in six countries around the world were illuminated in blue and yellow. The displays became a symbol of solidarity.
Zelenskyy and European Council President Costa discussed Ukraine’s needs for antiballistic systems and financing. They also discussed support for exports after Russian strikes.
Leaders of the Coalition of the Willing will meet on August 24 to discuss strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, pressure on Russia, and security guarantees.
Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa expressed support for the ICC and its independence after the US sanctions against court officials.
The Trump–Putin summit in August 2025 did not lead to a ceasefire or a peace agreement. A year later, the fighting continues, and Ukraine is once again submitting proposals to the United States.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a new international format that will unite the countries of the region around security, economy and tourism. The initiative was supported by the presidents of the European Council and the European Commission.
António Costa approved Spain's decisive actions to return migrants in Ceuta. The escalation of the migration crisis led to the death of at least 57 people.
European leaders condemned the Russian attack that violated Poland's airspace. They stated it poses a threat to Europe's security and promised to increase support for Ukraine.
The EU proposes to impose sanctions against over 1,600 companies that help Russia in the war against Ukraine. This is the largest sanctions package, which will increase the number of sanctioned entities by 50%.
In 2022, Russian occupiers committed a war crime, killing at least 50 Ukrainian prisoners of war in Olenivka. The victims were the defenders of Mariupol who left Azovstal.
The European Council has adopted sanctions against 15 individuals and one organization responsible for human rights violations against Ukrainian prisoners of war. Among those listed are individuals involved in torture in Olenivka and the pre-trial detention center in Taganrog.
Net donors and beneficiaries criticized the initial EU budget proposal. Germany demands spending cuts, while Spain considers the budget insufficient.
The President of France and the Chancellor of Germany criticized the EU for opening communication with Putin, which caused a confrontation with other leaders. The leaders of Estonia, Denmark and the Netherlands supported their position.
EU leaders confirmed unwavering support for Ukraine and expect the first payment of 90 billion euros loan by the end of June. They are also determined to increase pressure on russia and welcome progress in establishing a Special Tribunal.
The clause on accelerating Ukraine's accession to the EU was removed from the EU summit declaration at the initiative of Hungary's new Prime Minister Péter Magyar. He announced this on June 19.
European Council President Costa explained contacts with Russia as preparation for the peace process. The EU does not have a unified position on dialogue with the Kremlin.
President Zelenskyy stated that G7 leaders are unanimous on increasing pressure on Russia. The goal is to force the Kremlin into negotiations to end the war.
President Zelenskyy stated that the European Council meeting will discuss strengthening air defense and preparation for winter. The discussions will be based on the agreements of the G7 summit.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated his expectation of further progress in negotiations after the opening of the first cluster. He thanked EU leaders for their unanimity and announced discussions on the next five clusters.
According to the head of the European Commission, a new situation is emerging that indicates changes in Ukraine's favor. She also emphasized the importance of cooperation between Ukraine and EU states in the field of security.
The G7 will increase pressure on the Russian economy to limit its military capabilities. António Costa called this a step toward a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
President of the European Council António Costa called the week historic due to the start of negotiations on the first cluster. This is an important step toward Ukraine's membership in the EU.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the intention to open all six negotiation clusters regarding EU accession in the coming weeks. Currently, the first cluster is open.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the NATO Secretary General and the King of Belgium in Brussels. Ahead are the Ramstein-format meeting and meetings with defense ministers.
An advisor to the President of the European Council held two conversations with a Russian official to prepare for future negotiations. The EU is considering the possibility of appointing a special envoy.
Zelenskyy discussed with EU leaders the schedule for opening the next five clusters and a new sanctions package. Ukraine expects to receive the first financial tranche this month.