BRUSSELS (CHATNEWSTV) — European Council President António Costa has invited EU leaders to his first European Council meeting on Dec. 19, as well as the EU-Western Balkans Summit the day prior, pledging discussions on Ukraine, global strategy, and the EU’s geopolitical future.
In an invitation letter released on Saturday, Costa emphasized the importance of standing with Ukraine.
“We need to stand with Ukraine for as long as necessary and do whatever it takes for Russia’s invasion to be defeated and international law to prevail,” he wrote, citing his recent visit to Kyiv as a cornerstone of his commitment.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to attend the Brussels meeting to provide updates on the war and discuss EU support for a comprehensive peace.
The summit will also delve into Europe’s global engagement, including enlargement and strengthening ties with global partners. Costa stressed the importance of balancing the transatlantic relationship with the EU’s independent strategic interests.
“Enlargement is the main geopolitical investment we can make in our neighborhood,” Costa said, adding that the EU must strengthen its defense capabilities while fostering beneficial relationships with the UK and others.
The agenda includes discussions on migration policies, the Middle East crisis, and Sauli Niinistö’s report on civil and military readiness. Costa also seeks leaders’ approval for the EU Ethics Body to include the European Council, with former president Herman Van Rompuy as its representative.
The EU-Western Balkans Summit on Dec. 18 will focus on regional integration and shared geopolitical challenges, aiming to build momentum in the wake of growing tensions in Europe’s eastern and southern neighborhoods.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
