EU December summit crucial for Ukraine funding, says Costa
European Council President António Costa (photo: Getty Images)
The next EU leaders' summit, scheduled for December 18–19 in Brussels, will be of decisive importance, particularly regarding funding for Ukraine for 2026–2027, said European Council President António Costa, Sky TG24 reported.
Decision on funding for Ukraine
He noted that the European Council will begin its meeting with a discussion on Ukraine.
"Recent events highlight the need for urgent action by the EU. At the October European Council, we committed to addressing Ukraine's urgent financial needs, including for military and defense efforts. At our next meeting, we will have to determine how to fulfill this commitment," Costa wrote.
He added that, when the invitation letter to EU leaders was prepared, diplomatic efforts were ongoing to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
In particular, leaders will discuss "how best to continue protecting Europe's interests and how to strengthen Ukraine's negotiating position."
"An important part of this equation must be increasing pressure on Russia," he added.
Discussion of external economic pressure
At the EU summit on December 18, leaders will also discuss external economic and political pressure.
"I would like us to exchange views on the geoeconomic situation and its implications for EU competitiveness. European competitiveness does not exist in a vacuum. It is important to discuss the pressures, but also the opportunities that arise in a world characterized by growing geoeconomic competition, where rule-based economic relations and traditional partnerships can no longer be taken for granted," Costa wrote.
In addition, the summit will address EU enlargement, including an assessment of progress in reforms by candidate countries.
Costa also noted that the agenda will include the global economic situation, developments in the Middle East, decisions on European defense and security, and migration.
"As always, I will make an effort for our meeting to last only one day. But my key priority is delivering on the important decisions that must be taken, namely regarding funding for Ukraine," the President of the European Council stated.
It is also expected that EU leaders will have to agree to use frozen Russian assets to fund a reparations loan to Ukraine.
European Union leaders will continue discussions on finding a standard solution regarding the use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine at the next European Council summit, scheduled for December 18.
