The leaders of the 27 European Union (EU) member states will discuss high energy prices, the competitiveness of the European economy and imbalances in global trade at a summit scheduled for October 15–16 in Brussels. The two-day meetings will also address the EU’s new budget, support for Ukraine, defense and security, migration policies and developments in the Middle East.
The summit will be chaired by European Council President Antonio Costa and attended by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
In his invitation letter to the leaders, Costa stated that strengthening the European economy and protecting citizens from the rising cost of living are among the priorities amid growing geopolitical uncertainties. He emphasized the need to translate competitiveness objectives into concrete results and ensure economic stability.
New measures to reduce energy prices on the agenda
The summit’s first session will focus on policies aimed at improving Europe’s competitiveness and addressing energy costs. Leaders will discuss potential measures to mitigate the impact of recent increases in oil and natural gas prices on citizens and businesses.
The impact of developments in the Middle East and Iran on energy markets is also expected to be discussed. Leaders are expected to consider coordinated measures to ease price pressures and request that the European Commission prepare targeted and temporary support mechanisms.
Options under consideration include postponing certain obligations under the methane regulation and extending the temporary state aid framework. Meanwhile, the EU is expected to maintain its objectives of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and strengthening energy supply security.
Trade imbalances with China to be discussed
EU leaders will also address global economic imbalances affecting European industry. The growing trade deficit with China, in particular, remains one of the Union’s major concerns. The EU is reported to have a daily trade deficit of approximately EUR 1 billion with China.
Leaders are expected to discuss maintaining dialogue with relevant countries, particularly China, and strengthening existing instruments to protect Europe’s trade interests. The possibility of providing political guidance to the European Commission on developing new trade measures, if necessary, is also on the agenda.
Year-end target maintained for the EU’s new budget
On the first day of the summit, leaders will discuss the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034. The discussions will cover the budget negotiation framework prepared by the Irish presidency, spending priorities, member states’ contributions and new sources of EU revenue.
The European Commission had proposed a budget of approximately EUR 2 trillion for the period. However, some countries, led by Germany, consider the proposed amount too high. Despite disagreements among member states, the objective remains to reach a budget agreement by the end of the year.
Leaders will also discuss the EU’s enlargement process and reforms needed to prepare for the accession of new members. The accession processes of Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine and Moldova are expected to be reviewed, with particular attention to Montenegro, which aims to complete negotiations by the end of the year.
Military and financial support for Ukraine to continue
The second day of the summit will begin with discussions on Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to brief leaders on the country’s needs amid ongoing Russian attacks and ahead of the approaching winter.
Discussions will address strengthening Ukraine’s air and missile defenses, protecting critical energy infrastructure, continuing military and financial assistance, and increasing pressure on Russia.
Under the defense and security agenda, leaders will assess the increase in hybrid attacks and sabotage attempts across Europe. They are expected to discuss measures to strengthen the EU’s resilience against these threats, improve defense readiness and address critical military capability gaps.
Developments in the Middle East to be reviewed extensively
Developments in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as Yemen, Lebanon, Iran and Syria, will also be on the agenda of EU leaders.
Establishing a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid are among the priorities.
Israeli military operations in the West Bank, the expansion of settlement activities and violence against Palestinians will also be discussed. Leaders are expected to assess the potential implications of the E1 settlement project for the two-state solution.
No dedicated session on sanctions against Israel is planned. However, some member states may renew their calls for sanctions. According to EU Council sources, there is no unanimity required to suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement, while alternative restrictive measures targeting settlements have also failed to secure sufficient support.
Discussions will also cover support for state institutions in Lebanon, strengthening security and determining the next steps following the expiration of the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The impact of regional developments on maritime security and freedom of navigation will also be addressed.
Solidarity in migration policies emphasized
Migration policies will be discussed during a working lunch on the second day of the summit. Leaders will assess the decrease in irregular migration flows and the results achieved in implementing existing EU policies.
Leaders will discuss strengthening solidarity among member states during potential crises in areas such as Ceuta, Spain’s territory in North Africa, and improving the Union’s emergency response capacity. Measures to prevent migration from being used as a tool of political pressure will also be on the agenda.
The two-day summit is expected to cover a broad range of issues, from energy costs and competitiveness to security policies. The discussions are expected to provide important indications of Europe’s economic and political priorities.
