COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,update

Council of the EU

23/10/2025 11:27 | Press release | 19th package of sanctions against Russia: EU targets Russian energy, third-country banks and crypto providers

Today, the Council adopted a sweeping 19th package of further 69 individual listings and numerous economic restrictive measures targeting key sectors which fuel Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, including energy, finance and the military industrial complex. The Council is also strengthening control over the movement of Russian diplomats across the EU and taking further measures against those responsible for the abduction of Ukrainian children. As part of the package, the Council also imposed further measures on Belarus to restrict the latter’s support for the Russian war effort. Today’s package comes in response to Russia’s escalating aggression against Ukraine, in particular the recent brutal military campaign deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure, including energy, water and health facilities. These attacks, which have inflicted severe suffering on the civilian population, further underscore Russia’s unwillingness to pursue peace. “We have just adopted our 19th package of sanctions. It targets Russian energy, banks, crypto exchanges, and entities in China, among others. The EU is also regulating the movements of Russian diplomats to counter attempts at destabilisation. It is becoming increasingly difficult for Putin to finance his war. Every euro we deny Russia is one it cannot spend on war. The 19th package will not be the last.” — Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and chair of the Foreign Affairs Council Energy Today’s package introduces a ban on imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) into the EU, starting January 2027 for long-term contracts, and within six months for short-term contracts, and tightens the existing transaction ban on two major Russian state-owned oil producers (Rosneft and Gazprom Neft). The EU is also listing a Tatarstani conglomerate active in the Russian oil sector. In parallel, the EU is taking measures against important third country operators enabling Russia’s revenue streams. This involves sanctioning Chinese entities - two refineries and an oil trader - that are significant buyers of Russian crude oil. Furthermore, the EU is imposing additional sanctions across the shadow fleet value chain. Specifically, the 19th package includes the listing of Litasco Middle East DMCC, Lukoil’s prominent shadow fleet enabler based in the United Arab Emirates. Other listings include maritime registries providing false flags to shadow fleet vessels, allowing their continued operation by creating a fraudulent impression of compliance with certification requirements. Today’s measures also target the largest port container operator in the Russian Far East, and a leading shipbuilder for Sovcomflot. An additional 117 vessels have been made subject to a port access ban and a ban on the provision of a broad range of services related to maritime transport, bringing the total number of designated vessels to 557. These measures target non-EU tankers that are part of the shadow fleet circumventing the oil price cap mechanism, which otherwise support Russia’s energy sector, or transport military equipment for Russia or stolen Ukrainian grain. The 19th package also introduces a ban on reinsuring vessels belonging to the shadow fleet, further constraining their ability to operate. Financial measures Recent activity has evidenced Russia’s increasing use of crypto in circumventing sanctions. In this context, the stablecoin A7A5 – created with Russian state support – has emerged as a prominent tool for financing activities supporting the war of aggression. Therefore, today’s package introduces sanctions on the developer of A7A5, the Kyrgyz issuer of that coin, and the operator of a platform where significant volumes of A7A5 is traded. Transactions involving this stablecoin have also been prohibited across the EU. As of today, eight banks and oil traders from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, the UAE and Hong Kong that circumvent EU sanctions are subject to a transaction ban. Five additional Russian banks – Istina, Zemsky Bank, Commercial Bank Absolut Bank, MTS Bank, and Alfa-Bank – are targeted using the same measure. Four banks from Belarus and Kazakhstan are also put under a transaction ban, due to their connections to Russian financial messaging and payment systems. Additionally, the EU is prohibiting its operators from engaging with the Russian National Payment Card System (‘Mir’) or the Fast Payments System (‘SBP’). Significant restrictions are also imposed on maintaining economic relationships with entities active in nine Russian special economic zones. These zones are central to Russia’s industrial and technological capacity, hosting enterprises engaged in the production or development of goods contributing to the Russian war effort. Russian diplomats When travelling across the Schengen area beyond their country of accreditation, Russian diplomats will be obliged to inform in advance the relevant EU member state. This obligation aims at ensuring the awareness of member states, against a backdrop of increasingly hostile intelligence activities that support Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Additionally, EU member states may impose an authorisation requirement on Russian diplomats for traveling to their territories, based on visas or residence permits issued by another state. Children Since the start of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine in 2022, Ukrainian authorities estimate that Russia has deported and forcibly transferred nearly 20 000 Ukrainian children into Russia or into Ukrainian territories illegally occupied by Russia. Those children, many of whom are from orphanages or separated from their families, often face forced adoption and efforts to erase their Ukrainian identity through forced assimilation and indoctrination. Therefore, the EU is reinforcing accountability of those involved in such activities by listing 11 additional individuals. In order to streamline future sanctions on persons responsible for the abduction, forced assimilation and militarised education of Ukrainian minors, the Council is also introducing a new listing criterion. Military The EU is targeting businesspersons and entities forming part of the Russian military-industrial complex, and operators from UAE and China producing or supplying military and dual-use goods to Russia. Today’s listings also include a senior DPRK military commander deployed to Russia in support of the latter’s invasion of Ukraine, and an individual responsible for the inhumane treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war. Trade The Council has identified 45 new entities directly supporting Russia’s military and industrial complex by, inter alia, enabling the circumvention of export restrictions on computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools, microelectronics, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other advanced technology items. These entities will be subject to tighter export restrictions with regard to dual-use goods, as well as items which might generally contribute to the technological enhancement of Russia’s defence sector. 17 of these entities are located in third countries other than Russia (12 in China, including Hong Kong, three in India and two in Thailand). The EU has also agreed to expand the existing export ban, to include electronic components, rangefinders, additional chemicals used in the preparation of propellants and additional metals, oxides and alloys used in the manufacturing of military systems. Salts and ores, articles made of rubber, tubes, tyres, millstones and construction materials will also be subject to more stringent export restrictions. Finally, the 19th package introduces a prohibition to purchase, import or transfer all acyclic hydrocarbons due to the importance of such materials in generating significant revenues for Russia. Additionally, the EU is listing Russia’s largest gold producer, further constraining its revenue sources. Services Today’s package makes prior authorisation mandatory for all services provided to the Russian government. Furthermore, it restricts the provision of AI services, high-performance computing services and commercial space-based services to Russian entities, including the Russian government.   Today’s measures also prohibit European operators from providing services directly related to tourism activities in Russia. Belarus Today’s package includes five new listings related to the Belarusian military-industrial complex and the Lukashenka regime. Moreover, it further mirrors Belarus’ trade measures with the ones imposed on Russia. Additionally, the agreed measures target crypto-related payment services and expand the prohibition on providing certain software, including for banking, finance, commercial space-based services, technical testing and analysis, AI and quantum computing. Background In its conclusions of 19 December 2024, the European Council reiterated its resolute condemnation of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, which constitutes a manifest violation of the UN Charter, and reaffirmed its continued support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. The European Council also reconfirmed the EU’s unwavering commitment to providing continued political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes and as intensely as needed. Russia must not prevail. The European Council reaffirmed its support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law, in line with the key principles and objectives of Ukraine’s Peace Formula, and underlined the principle that no initiative regarding Ukraine be taken without Ukraine. To this end, the EU and its member states will maintain their intensive global outreach efforts and will participate in the discussions affecting Europe’s security. The European Union remains ready to step up pressure on Russia, including by adopting further sanctions. Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/2032 of 23 October 2025 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine Council Regulation (EU) 2025/2033 of 23 October 2025 amending Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/2036 of 23 October 2025 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine Council Regulation (EU) 2025/2037 of 23 October 2025 amending Regulation (EU) No 269/2014 concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/2035 of 23 October 2025 implementing Regulation (EU) No 269/2014 concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/2040 of 23 October 2025 amending Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2025/2038 of 23 October 2025 implementing Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/2039 of 23 October 2025 implementing Article 8a(1) of Regulation (EC) No 765/2006 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine European Council conclusions, 19 December 2024 Russia's war against Ukraine (background information)   Visit the website

23/10/2025 16:27 | CONCLUSIONS |

European Council conclusions on European defence and security, 23 October 2025

III. EUROPEAN DEFENCE AND SECURITY 11. The European Council took stock of work aiming to decisively ramp up Europe’s defence readiness by 2030. The European Council confirmed its determination to deliver at pace and at scale on this objective, so that Europe is better equipped to act and deal autonomously, in a coordinated way, and with a 360° approach, with immediate and future challenges and threats. Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and its repercussions for European and global security in a changing environment constitute an existential challenge for the European Union. 12. Further to the presentation by the Commission and the High Representative of the European Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030, the European Council calls for Member State-led work on all the priority capability areas identified at EU level to be operationalised, with the support of the European Defence Agency (EDA) and on the basis of a coherent overall approach, building on the Strategic Compass, so that Europe develops the full spectrum of modern capabilities needed, in full coherence with NATO. The European Council acknowledges the work already undertaken by Member States, and calls on them to finalise the process of setting up capability coalitions in all the priority areas by the end of the year and to advance on concrete projects to be launched in the first half of 2026. 13. In doing so, the Union will reduce its strategic dependencies, address its critical capability gaps and strengthen the European defence technological and industrial base accordingly throughout the Union so that it is in a position to better supply equipment in the quantities and at the pace needed. This will also contribute to boosting European industrial and technological competitiveness, including for SMEs.   14. The European Council condemns the violation of the airspace of several Member States and stresses the importance of ensuring the defence of all EU land, air and maritime borders. The immediate threats on the EU’s Eastern flank and the provision of concrete support to Member States need to be addressed as matters of priority. 15. In addition, considering the threats on the rest of the EU borders, the European Council stresses the importance of their defence. 16. In the light of Russia’s and Belarus’ intensified hybrid attacks and the recent violations of EU airspace, the European Council underscores the importance of close cooperation among Member States to comprehensively strengthen their defence and security capabilities. In this context, enhancing the resilience, security and protection of critical infrastructure, including energy, digital and undersea infrastructure, is also essential. 17. The European Council considers that, to respond to the most immediate needs and threats, work should focus in particular on concrete projects to reinforce Member States’ joint efforts to enhance their anti-drone and air defence capabilities, in a coordinated manner, in particular making full use of the SAFE and EDIP instruments and other relevant existing financial instruments. 18. The European Council calls for accelerated joint development of space assets and services that serve security and defence purposes, as well as for the protection of existing assets, including dual-use assets, given their importance for Europe’s strategic autonomy. 19. In order to ramp up the European defence industry’s capacity, the European Council calls on Member States to increasingly gear defence investment towards joint development, production, and procurement, with the support of the EDA, as demand aggregation on the basis of standardised requirements and economies of scale are key to providing predictability to industry, lowering costs and fostering interoperability. The SAFE and EDIP instruments should be fully mobilised to that end. The European Council stresses the importance of the proper functioning and further integration of the European defence market across the Union, including cross-border access to defence supply chains, especially for SMEs and mid-caps. 20. The European Council underlines the importance of close cooperation with Ukraine and of its integration with and contribution to the European defence industry, notably as regards defence innovation and cutting-edge defence technology. 21. The European Council stresses the need to ensure effective political oversight and coordination to keep track of progress and to intensify work by defence ministers in the Council on Europe’s defence readiness. This work will be informed by an annual defence readiness report, to be prepared by the EDA with the support of the Commission and the High Representative, and presented to the European Council. The report will take stock of progress towards closing the existing capability gaps, building on the Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD). 22. The European Council calls on the Council to strengthen the European Defence Agency so that it can fully play its role in the field of defence capability development, research and acquisition and to report on the necessary measures by the end of 2025. 23. Recalling the commitment to substantially increase expenditure on Europe’s defence and security, the European Council reviewed work on the relevant financing options and on cooperation to invest more efficiently in the field of defence. It welcomes the progress made since March 2025 with regard to the activation of the national escape clauses, the mid-term review of the EU cohesion policy, and the SAFE and EDIP instruments. 24. The European Council acknowledges the progress made on the Defence Readiness Omnibus, welcomes progress on the proposal on incentivising defence related investments in the EU budget and looks forward to a swift agreement by the end of 2025. It calls on the Commission to present new proposals on simplification as soon as possible. 25. The European Council also welcomes the efforts made by the European Investment Bank (EIB) to step up, simplify and accelerate its support for European security and defence capabilities. It encourages the EIB Group to further explore ways to finance industries and companies, and help start-ups to scale up in the security and defence sector in Europe.   26. The European Council underlines the importance of innovative technologies and disruptive solutions and calls on the Commission to present a roadmap for defence industry transformation. 27. The European Council reiterates its invitation to the Commission and the High Representative to present further proposals to strengthen military mobility throughout the Union. 28. The European Council recalls the importance of working together with like-minded partners, who share the EU’s foreign and security policy goals. 29. The European Council recalls that a stronger and more capable European Union in the field of security and defence will contribute positively to global and transatlantic security and is complementary to NATO, which remains, for those States that are members of it, the foundation of their collective defence. 30. The above is without prejudice to the specific character of the security and defence policy of certain Member States, and takes into account the security and defence interests of all Member States, in accordance with the Treaties. 31. The European Council will continue to provide strategic guidance and review progress on the implementation of the defence readiness objective.   Visit the website

23/10/2025 10:21 | Statements and remarks | Remarks by President António Costa at the joint doorstep with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy   Dear Volodymyr, as a future member of the European Union, I am very glad to have you here among our colleagues. First of all, in spite of the great expectations created by President Trump's initiatives, it is clear that today, unfortunately, these initiatives do not match the goodwill of President Putin. Russia is increasing the strikes, is increasing the strikes against civilians, against civilian facilities, which means that we need to continue supporting Ukraine’s fight for a just and lasting peace. Today, in the morning, we approved already the 19th package of sanctions targeting Russia’s shadow fleet, as well as its banking and energy sectors. And today, at this European Council, we will take the political decision to ensure the financial needs of Ukraine for 2026 and 2027, including for the acquisition of military equipment.  And this is a very strong message to Russia. We have said repeatedly that we will support Ukraine for as long as necessary and whatever it takes. And now, we have concretised this. And today, we will take the political decision to ensure Ukraine’s financial needs for 2026 and 2027. Welcome to your house. I think we will have a very good European Council.   Visit the website 22/10/2025 23:16 | Statements and remarks | Press statement by President António Costa following the EU-Egypt summit   It is a pleasure to welcome President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for the first EU–Egypt Summit. I am really glad; it was a very good summit. This meeting marks a significant milestone in our relationship. It shows how strong our partnership is. Egypt plays a key role in the region and beyond, in promoting stability and conflict resolution. We have an economic and trade relation that has been growing impressively and that we want to see grow even further. We have a rich cooperation in multiple fields: trade, security, mobility, migration, energy, education, research, culture. I am very glad that, earlier today, the EU and Egypt have signed three important agreements, especially an agreement allowing Egypt to participate in our Horizon Europe programme. This is a very strong signal of the importance we both attach to education and to people-to-people contacts.  Just last week, I attended the Sharm El Sheikh Peace Summit. It was a moment of hope and global unity that all parties must now preserve, and on which we must all work to ensure its promises are fulfilled.  Dear President El-Sisi, I want to commend your leadership. Your unwavering engagement and your tireless mediation efforts were crucial in sealing the first phase of the ceasefire deal on Gaza.  The agreement resulted in all living Israeli hostages reuniting with their families. After two years of death and destruction, it brought hope to the Palestinian people. A hope that now needs to transform into lasting peace and reconstruction. Dear President, as you said in Sharm El Sheikh, and I quote: “peace is only complete when the hand of reconstruction extends after the devastation”. The first difficulties have appeared, but all parties must engage in good faith to ensure that the ceasefire is upheld. That humanitarian aid must continue to be delivered and at scale. We want Israelis and Palestinians to be able to build a peaceful future together. We want a lasting peace based on the two-state solution. Israel and a State of Palestine living side-by-side in peace and security, free of terrorism. The EU is ready to help, as we have in the past, in recovery, reconstruction and supporting reforms.  Beyond the Middle East, Egypt plays a vital stabilising role across the wider region. We share common concerns and objectives – in Libya, in Sudan and in Somalia. Today, we agreed to continue and deepen our dialogue and engagement in these critical issues.  Of course, maritime security is also vital for both parties. Given Egypt’s position, we will work together to keep sea routes safe and open for trade, in the Red Sea, the Suez Canal, the Mediterranean and beyond.  Finally, our partnership will continue to be guided by mutual respect, shared values and a strong commitment to multilateralism.  Both the European Union and Egypt support the United Nations and the rules-based international order, in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. And we agree that working together is the best way to solve global problems.  We have also discussed today Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. We are united in our desire for a just and lasting peace.  I briefed President El-Sisi of the ongoing European support to Ukraine in order to achieve peace and to apply pressure on Russia to come to the negotiating table.  There have been recent developments in this endeavour and the EU strongly supports President Trump’s efforts. The EU will continue to engage with Egypt on this subject, because we see Egypt as a leading voice in the global scene and as a partner, also on Ukraine. The European Union and Egypt will continue to work together. And I am sure that the European Commission and my friend, Ursula von der Leyen, will give their best to ensure that we continue to strengthen our bilateral relations. Thank you for this meeting and we look forward to the next steps in our relationship, as partners and friends.   Visit the website

22/10/2025 20:47 | Statements and remarks | Joint Statement EU-Egypt Summit, 22 October 2025   President of the European Council, António Costa, President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen and President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, met in Brussels on 22 October 2025 for the 1st summit between the European Union and Egypt. During the summit, the leaders adopted a joint statement. Joint statement   Visit the website 22/10/2025 19:37 | Meetings | Main results - Tripartite Social Summit, 22 October 2025   EU leaders and social partners met in Brussels to discuss ‘Making Europe stronger in a changing world that delivers for workers and enterprises’.   View meeting page ● European Council   22/10/2025 18:25 | Statements and remarks | Déclaration du président António Costa à l’issue du Sommet social tripartite   Nous venons de conclure notre Sommet social tripartite. Le dialogue social est au cœur de notre modèle et un ciment qui unit les forces vives de notre Union. C’est toujours un moment privilégié de pouvoir échanger avec les partenaires sociaux. Demain, lors du Conseil Européen, nous débattrons de la meilleure manière de relever plusieurs des défis auxquels l’Union européenne est confrontée : notre soutien à l’Ukraine, la défense et la sécurité, la compétitivité et, pour la première fois, le logement. Face aux turbulences que nous devons affronter, nous ne pouvons tenir pour acquis notre paix, notre stabilité et notre prospérité. Les valeurs de l’Union Européenne, notre modèle social et redistributif, sont mis à l’épreuve. Il est de notre devoir de renforcer les conditions d’une Union Européen plus agile, plus innovante, plus souveraine, au bénéfice de nos travailleurs, de nos entreprises et de notre société tout entière. La compétitivité et l’Europe sociale sont deux objectifs qui se renforcent mutuellement. Investir dans l’innovation, dans les compétences de demain est une nécessité absolue pour améliorer de façon juste et durable notre compétitivité. C’est la voie d’une économie ouverte, régulée, soutenable où la technologie sert l’émancipation autant que la croissance ; où les fruits de la croissance sont répartis de manière équitable entre tous. Et cela contribuera à une Europe toujours plus inclusive, créant de l’emploi de qualité, assurant un droit au logement à chacun. Selon le dernier Eurobaromètre, le manque de logements abordables est de loin la question la plus urgente pour les Européens vivant en ville. Plus de la moitié d’entre eux le désignent comme le défi majeur auquel ils sont confrontés. Bien que ce domaine relève avant tout des gouvernements nationaux, régionaux et locaux, il est essentiel que nous, dirigeants européens, abordions la manière dont l’Union européenne peut compléter ces efforts et avoir un impact concret dans la lutte contre cette crise. C’est pourquoi j’ai veillé à ce que la crise du logement soit inscrite pour la toute première fois à l’agenda du Conseil européen de demain. C’était un engagement que j’ai pris lorsque j’ai pris mes fonctions. Car les dirigeants européens ont le devoir d’aborder les problèmes concrets et urgents auxquels nos citoyens doivent faire face au quotidien. Lors de ma récente tournée dans les capitales européennes, j’ai pu constater combien l’accessibilité et le coût du logement sont des priorités absolues pour les Européens. De Lisbonne à Copenhague, de Dublin à Athènes. Les causes de cette crise sont multiples et variées, tout comme doivent l’être les solutions. Une maison n’est pas seulement un abri ; c’est le fondement de nos vies. Elle conditionne notre capacité à participer activement aux sphères sociales, politiques et économiques. Le manque de logements abordables, accessibles et décents est une crise aux conséquences profondes sur les plans social, économique et politique. Elle nuit à notre compétitivité, car elle restreint la mobilité des travailleurs et freine la croissance économique. Si nous voulons renforcer notre cohésion sociale, préserver nos systèmes démocratiques et améliorer notre compétitivité, il est essentiel que nous agissions sur cette crise. Je vous remercie pour nos échanges aujourd’hui. Ils sont une contribution précieuse aux échanges que nous aurons demain au Conseil Européen, mais aussi une contribution importante pour la Commission européenne alors qu’elle prépare le tout premier Plan européen pour le logement abordable. Je vous remercie pour votre attention.   Visit the website   22/10/2025 17:47 | Press release | Main messages from the Tripartite Social Summit of 22 October 2025   EU leaders and social partners met in Brussels for the Tripartite Social Summit, a twice-yearly forum for dialogue that brings together the leaders of the EU institutions and the European social partners. Today’s discussion focused on making Europe stronger in a changing world that delivers for workers and enterprises. In particular, the following topics were addressed: A stronger Union economically and politically Investing in productivity, affordable housing and quality jobs “The challenges of today require decisive action. From affordable housing to quality jobs, we must take a comprehensive approach to strengthen Europe’s economic and social fabric. By prioritising housing, we are not just addressing a pressing crisis, but investing in the future stability, cohesion, prosperity, and competitiveness of our Union.” — António Costa, President of the European Council “Europe’s unique social model is a pillar of strength for our people and economy. Our competitiveness and cohesion depend on our strategic industries thriving here in Europe. Together with our social partners we are focusing on priorities that matter to our workers and businesses, like clean manufacturing, good jobs, and affordable housing. Standing united at European level, we will maintain a solid foundation for our European social market economy.” — Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission “Strong European cooperation is crucial in these times of increasing geopolitical uncertainty. The Danish Presidency is highly committed to strong social dialogue, and the involvement of trade unions and employers is key when addressing the challenges Europe is facing. We need a stronger and more competitive Union with a qualified workforce. Labour mobility is also a vital driver for competitiveness, growth and increasing employment. We must insist on decent and fair working conditions for all and keep fighting social dumping.” — Kaare Dybvad Bek, Danish Minister for Employment, on behalf of the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU “A competitive, secure and resilient economy, with strong enterprises, is a prerequisite to tackle the geopolitical and societal challenges facing the European Union. Improving framework conditions for private and public investment, ensuring financial stability and making the necessary labour market reforms are the basis to ensure that the EU succeeds in its security, green and digital ambitions while preserving its social model and continuing to stand by Ukraine and its people. Addressing high energy costs, reducing the regulatory overburden to a manageable level and tackling skills and labour shortages is more important than ever.” — Markus J. Beyrer, BusinessEurope’s Director General, representing employers (BusinessEurope, SGI Europe, SMEunited) “Quality jobs are the key to Europe’s success. For working people, it is crucial that the EU delivers quality jobs through legislation under the Quality Jobs Act with secure contracts, fair pay, and strong rights for every worker. Wages must rise in the face of soaring cost of living, especially housing, which is now unaffordable for millions of workers. The EU must act urgently to protect workers and rebuild trust through fair pay, secure jobs and affordable housing. Public investments in working people, their skills, innovation and homes, are key also to driving up productivity.” — Esther Lynch, General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) The views cited in this text are those of the individual / organisation concerned and do not collectively constitute the point of view of the Council or the European Council.   Visit the website European Council   21/10/2025 10:06 | Statements and remarks | Statement by President Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Starmer, Chancellor Merz, President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Prime Minister Tusk, President von der Leyen, President Costa, Prime Minister Støre, President Stubb and Prime Minister Frederiksen on Peace for Ukraine   We are all united in our desire for a just and lasting peace, deserved by the people of Ukraine. We strongly support President Trump’s position that the fighting should stop immediately, and that the current line of contact should be the starting point of negotiations. We remain committed to the principle that international borders must not be changed by force. Russia’s stalling tactics have shown time and time again that Ukraine is the only party serious about peace. We can all see that Putin continues to choose violence and destruction. Therefore we are clear that Ukraine must be in the strongest possible position - before, during, and after any ceasefire. We must ramp up the pressure on Russia’s economy and its defence industry, until Putin is ready to make peace. We are developing measures to use the full value of Russia’s immobilised sovereign assets so that Ukraine has the resources it needs. Leaders will meet later this week in the European Council and in the Coalition of the Willing format to discuss how to take this work forward and to further support Ukraine.   Visit the website ● Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο   23/10/2025 18:15 | ΣΥΜΠΕΡΑΣΜΑΤΑ | Συμπεράσματα του Ευρωπαϊκού Συμβουλίου σχετικά με την ευρωπαϊκή άμυνα και ασφάλεια, 23 Οκτωβρίου 2025   III. ΕΥΡΩΠΑΪΚΗ ΑΜΥΝΑ ΚΑΙ ΑΣΦΑΛΕΙΑ 11. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο προέβη σε απολογισμό των εργασιών που αποσκοπούν στην αποφασιστική ενίσχυση της αμυντικής ετοιμότητας της Ευρώπης έως το 2030. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο επιβεβαίωσε την αποφασιστικότητά του να επιτύχει αυτόν τον στόχο γρήγορα και σε ευρεία κλίμακα, ώστε η Ευρώπη να είναι καλύτερα εξοπλισμένη για να ενεργεί και να αντιμετωπίζει αυτόνομα, με συντονισμένο τρόπο και με μια προσέγγιση 360 μοιρών, τις άμεσες και τις μελλοντικές προκλήσεις και απειλές. Ο επιθετικός πόλεμος της Ρωσίας κατά της Ουκρανίας και οι επιπτώσεις του στην ευρωπαϊκή και την παγκόσμια ασφάλεια σε ένα μεταβαλλόμενο περιβάλλον αποτελούν πρόκληση για την ίδια την ύπαρξη της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης. 12. Πέραν της παρουσίασης από την Επιτροπή και την Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπο του χάρτη πορείας για την ευρωπαϊκή αμυντική ετοιμότητα έως το 2030, το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο ζητεί να τεθούν σε εφαρμογή οι εργασίες υπό την καθοδήγηση των κρατών μελών σε όλους τους τομείς δυνατοτήτων προτεραιότητας που έχουν προσδιοριστεί σε επίπεδο ΕΕ, με την υποστήριξη του Ευρωπαϊκού Οργανισμού Άμυνας (ΕΟΑ), βάσει μιας συνεκτικής συνολικής προσέγγισης και με αξιοποίηση της στρατηγικής πυξίδας, ούτως ώστε η Ευρώπη να αναπτύξει το πλήρες φάσμα των απαιτούμενων σύγχρονων δυνατοτήτων, σε πλήρη συνοχή με το ΝΑΤΟ. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο αναγνωρίζει τις εργασίες που έχουν ήδη πραγματοποιηθεί από τα κράτη μέλη και τα καλεί να ολοκληρώσουν τη διαδικασία δημιουργίας συνασπισμών δυνατοτήτων σε όλους τους τομείς προτεραιότητας έως το τέλος του έτους και να προχωρήσουν σε συγκεκριμένα έργα που αναμένεται να δρομολογηθούν κατά το πρώτο εξάμηνο του 2026. 13. Με τον τρόπο αυτό, η Ένωση θα μειώσει τις στρατηγικές εξαρτήσεις της, θα αντιμετωπίσει τα κενά σε κρίσιμες δυνατότητές της και θα ενισχύσει δεόντως την ευρωπαϊκή τεχνολογική και βιομηχανική βάση στον τομέα της άμυνας σε ολόκληρη την Ένωση ώστε να είναι σε θέση να προμηθεύει καλύτερα εξοπλισμό στις ποσότητες και με τον ρυθμό που απαιτούνται. Τούτο θα συμβάλει επίσης στην τόνωση της ευρωπαϊκής βιομηχανικής και τεχνολογικής ανταγωνιστικότητας, μεταξύ άλλων και για τις ΜΜΕ. 14. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο καταδικάζει την παραβίαση του εναέριου χώρου αρκετών κρατών μελών και τονίζει ότι είναι σημαντικό να διασφαλιστεί η προάσπιση όλων των χερσαίων, εναέριων και θαλάσσιων συνόρων της ΕΕ. Οι άμεσες απειλές κατά της ανατολικής πτέρυγας της ΕΕ και η παροχή συγκεκριμένης στήριξης προς τα κράτη μέλη αποτελούν ζητήματα που πρέπει να αντιμετωπιστούν κατά προτεραιότητα. 15. Επιπλέον, το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο τονίζει ότι είναι σημαντική η άμυνα των υπόλοιπων συνόρων της ΕΕ λόγω των απειλών που αντιμετωπίζουν. 16. Λαμβάνοντας υπόψη τις εντατικοποιημένες υβριδικές επιθέσεις της Ρωσίας και της Λευκορωσίας και τις πρόσφατες παραβιάσεις του εναέριου χώρου της ΕΕ, το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο υπογραμμίζει τη σημασία της στενής συνεργασίας μεταξύ των κρατών μελών για την ολοκληρωμένη ενίσχυση των δυνατοτήτων τους στους τομείς της άμυνας και της ασφάλειας. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό, είναι επίσης απαραίτητη η ενίσχυση της ανθεκτικότητας, της ασφάλειας και της προστασίας των κρίσιμων υποδομών, συμπεριλαμβανομένων των ενεργειακών, ψηφιακών και υποθαλάσσιων υποδομών. 17. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο θεωρεί ότι, για να αντιμετωπιστούν οι πλέον άμεσες ανάγκες και απειλές, οι εργασίες θα πρέπει να επικεντρωθούν ιδίως σε συγκεκριμένα έργα, ώστε να ενισχυθούν οι κοινές προσπάθειες των κρατών μελών για τη βελτίωση των δυνατοτήτων τους όσον αφορά την αναχαίτιση δρόνων και την αεράμυνα, με συντονισμένο τρόπο, ιδίως μέσω της πλήρους αξιοποίησης των μέσων SAFE και EDIP και άλλων σχετικών υφιστάμενων χρηματοδοτικών μέσων. 18. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο ζητεί να επιταχυνθεί η κοινή ανάπτυξη διαστημικών περιουσιακών στοιχείων και υπηρεσιών που εξυπηρετούν σκοπούς ασφάλειας και άμυνας, καθώς και να προστατευθούν τα υφιστάμενα περιουσιακά στοιχεία, συμπεριλαμβανομένων των στοιχείων διπλής χρήσης, λαμβανομένης υπόψη της σημασίας τους για τη στρατηγική αυτονομία της Ευρώπης. 19. Προκειμένου να ενισχυθεί η ικανότητα της ευρωπαϊκής αμυντικής βιομηχανίας, το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο καλεί τα κράτη μέλη να προσανατολίσουν όλο και περισσότερο τις επενδύσεις στον τομέα της άμυνας προς την κοινή ανάπτυξη, παραγωγή και προμήθεια, με την υποστήριξη του ΕΟΑ, καθώς η συγκέντρωση της ζήτησης βάσει τυποποιημένων απαιτήσεων και οι οικονομίες κλίμακας έχουν καίρια σημασία για την παροχή προβλεψιμότητας στη βιομηχανία, τη μείωση του κόστους και την προώθηση της διαλειτουργικότητας. Προς τον σκοπό αυτόν, τα μέσα SAFE και EDIP θα πρέπει να κινητοποιηθούν πλήρως. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο τονίζει τη σημασία της εύρυθμης λειτουργίας και της περαιτέρω ενοποίησης της ευρωπαϊκής αμυντικής αγοράς σε ολόκληρη την Ένωση, συμπεριλαμβανομένης της διασυνοριακής πρόσβασης σε αλυσίδες εφοδιασμού στον τομέα της άμυνας, ιδίως για τις ΜΜΕ και τις επιχειρήσεις μεσαίας κεφαλαιοποίησης. 20. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο υπογραμμίζει τη σημασία της στενής συνεργασίας με την Ουκρανία, καθώς και της ένταξης και συμβολής της στην ευρωπαϊκή αμυντική βιομηχανία, ιδίως όσον αφορά την καινοτομία στον τομέα της άμυνας και την αμυντική τεχνολογία αιχμής. 21. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο τονίζει την ανάγκη να διασφαλιστεί αποτελεσματική πολιτική εποπτεία και συντονισμός για την παρακολούθηση της προόδου και να εντατικοποιηθούν οι εργασίες των υπουργών Άμυνας στο Συμβούλιο όσον αφορά την αμυντική ετοιμότητα της Ευρώπης. Οι εργασίες αυτές θα βασίζονται σε ετήσια έκθεση αμυντικής ετοιμότητας, η οποία θα καταρτίζεται από τον ΕΟΑ με την υποστήριξη της Επιτροπής και της Ύπατης Εκπροσώπου, και θα υποβάλλεται στο Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο. Στην έκθεση θα επισκοπείται η πρόοδος προς την κάλυψη των υφιστάμενων ελλείψεων δυνατοτήτων, με βάση τη συντονισμένη ετήσια επανεξέταση στον τομέα της άμυνας (CARD). 22. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο καλεί το Συμβούλιο να ενισχύσει τον Ευρωπαϊκό Οργανισμό Άμυνας, ώστε αυτός να μπορεί να διαδραματίσει στο έπακρο τον ρόλο του στον τομέα της ανάπτυξης, της έρευνας και των αγορών αμυντικών δυνατοτήτων, και να υποβάλει έκθεση σχετικά με τα αναγκαία μέτρα έως το τέλος του 2025. 23. Υπενθυμίζοντας τη δέσμευση για σημαντική αύξηση των δαπανών για την άμυνα και την ασφάλεια της Ευρώπης, το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο εξέτασε την πρόοδο των εργασιών όσον αφορά τις συναφείς επιλογές χρηματοδότησης και τη συνεργασία για αποδοτικότερες επενδύσεις στον τομέα της άμυνας. Επικροτεί την πρόοδο που έχει σημειωθεί από τον Μάρτιο του 2025 όσον αφορά την ενεργοποίηση των εθνικών ρητρών διαφυγής, την ενδιάμεση επανεξέταση της πολιτικής συνοχής της ΕΕ και τα μέσα SAFE και EDIP. 24. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο αναγνωρίζει την πρόοδο που έχει σημειωθεί όσον αφορά τη δέσμη «omnibus» για την αμυντική ετοιμότητα, εκφράζει την ικανοποίησή του για την πρόοδο όσον αφορά την πρόταση σχετικά με την παροχή κινήτρων στον προϋπολογισμό της ΕΕ για επενδύσεις που σχετίζονται με την άμυνα, και προσβλέπει σε ταχεία συμφωνία έως τα τέλη του 2025. Καλεί δε την Επιτροπή να υποβάλει το συντομότερο δυνατόν νέες προτάσεις όσον αφορά την απλούστευση. 25. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο επικροτεί επίσης τις προσπάθειες που έχει καταβάλει η Ευρωπαϊκή Τράπεζα Επενδύσεων (ΕΤΕπ) για την ενίσχυση, την απλούστευση και την επιτάχυνση της στήριξης που παρέχει στις ευρωπαϊκές δυνατότητες ασφάλειας και άμυνας. Ενθαρρύνει τον όμιλο της ΕΤΕπ να διερευνήσει περαιτέρω τρόπους για τη χρηματοδότηση βιομηχανιών και εταιρειών στον τομέα της ασφάλειας και της άμυνας στην Ευρώπη και για την παροχή βοήθειας στις σχετικές νεοφυείς επιχειρήσεις, ώστε να επεκταθούν. 26. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο υπογραμμίζει τη σημασία των καινοτόμων τεχνολογιών και των ανατρεπτικών λύσεων και καλεί την Επιτροπή να παρουσιάσει χάρτη πορείας για τον μετασχηματισμό της αμυντικής βιομηχανίας. 27. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο καλεί εκ νέου την Επιτροπή και την Ύπατη Εκπρόσωπο να υποβάλουν περαιτέρω προτάσεις για την ενίσχυση της στρατιωτικής κινητικότητας σε ολόκληρη την Ένωση. 28. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο υπενθυμίζει τη σημασία της συνεργασίας με ομονοούντες εταίρους, που συμμερίζονται τους στόχους της ΕΕ στον τομέα της εξωτερικής πολιτικής και της πολιτικής ασφαλείας. 29. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο υπενθυμίζει ότι μια ισχυρότερη και ικανότερη Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση στον τομέα της ασφάλειας και της άμυνας θα συμβάλει θετικά στην παγκόσμια και τη διατλαντική ασφάλεια και θα λειτουργήσει συμπληρωματικά προς το ΝΑΤΟ, το οποίο παραμένει θεμέλιο της συλλογικής άμυνας των κρατών που είναι μέλη του. 30. Τα ανωτέρω ισχύουν με την επιφύλαξη του ιδιαίτερου χαρακτήρα της πολιτικής περί ασφάλειας και άμυνας ορισμένων κρατών μελών, λαμβάνουν δε υπόψη τα συμφέροντα όλων των κρατών μελών στους τομείς της ασφάλειας και της άμυνας, σύμφωνα με τις Συνθήκες. 31. Το Ευρωπαϊκό Συμβούλιο θα συνεχίσει να παρέχει στρατηγική καθοδήγηση και να εξετάζει την πρόοδο όσον αφορά την υλοποίηση του στόχου της αμυντικής ετοιμότητας.   Επισκεφτείτε τον ιστοχώρο