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European Union leaders gathered in Brussels on Friday for the second day of their regular summit, with support for Ukraine, defense, maritime security, developments in the Middle East and migration among the main issues on the agenda.
The first session of the day is focused on the latest situation in Ukraine and continued support for Kyiv, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expected to take part.
As Russian attacks intensify, leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s need for air defense systems, interceptor missiles and financing.
They may also consider tighter measures against Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” which Moscow is accused of using to circumvent sanctions, as well as visa restrictions targeting Russian citizens.
EU financing for Ukraine in 2026 has already been agreed, while leaders are also discussing how to meet Kyiv’s financial needs in the following period.
The possible use of frozen Russian assets could return to the agenda, though concrete progress is not expected in the short term.
Before lunch, EU leaders are scheduled to discuss hybrid attacks attributed to Russia, maritime security and developments in the Middle East.
Recent attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea and their impact on maritime routes critical to Ukraine’s grain exports are also expected to be discussed.
Leaders will also address the consequences of the Iran-U.S. war, Iranian attacks around the Strait of Hormuz and renewed Houthi threats in the Red Sea, particularly their effects on trade and energy flows.
The EU’s Aspides maritime mission in the Red Sea is also on the agenda, including its need for additional vessels and increased contributions from member states.
Discussions on the Middle East will also cover developments in Iran, Yemen, the West Bank and Lebanon.
EU leaders are expected to discuss migration during a working lunch following the crisis in Ceuta, Spain’s North African territory.
Although irregular migrant arrivals have declined, disagreements remain over how to manage border crises, strengthen migration controls and ensure solidarity among member states.
The first day of the summit focused on competitiveness, the EU’s next multiannual financial framework, enlargement and reforms.
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