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Ukraine, competitiveness and global economic challenges, the EU's next budget and the situation in the Middle East were the main discussion points at the 18‑19 June 2026 meeting of the European Council. On Ukraine, EU Heads of State or Government adopted joBriefing - Outcome of the European Council meeting, 18‑19 June 2026 - 25-06-2026
Ukraine, competitiveness and global economic challenges, the EU's next budget and the situation in the Middle East were the main discussion points at the 18‑19 June 2026 meeting of the European Council. On Ukraine, EU Heads of State or Government adopted joint conclusions of all 27 Member States for the first time since March 2025, and stressed their determination to increase pressure on Russia – signalling it with the agreement to roll over the sanctions for 12 rather than the previous six months. This was coupled with a marked welcome for the opening of the first negotiation cluster for Ukraine and Moldova, and a sense of new momentum on enlargement, also for the countries of the Western Balkans. Regarding competitiveness and global economic imbalances, EU leaders requested the Commission sharpen the EU's trade defence tool box and possibly complement it with new instruments, thereby pursuing a path of diversification and de-risking of the EU's trade relationships. The discussion on the next multiannual financial framework was seen as a step towards an agreement by the end of 2026, with the incoming Irish Presidency being called on to present a revised negotiation box for the October meeting; in parallel, further work will be carried out on options for new own resources. Regarding the situation in the Middle East, the European Council welcomed the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran, but expressed serious concern about the situation in Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank. Other topics mentioned in the conclusions were Ebola, Armenia, upholding international law, and Islands and coastal communities. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP Read more











