EU leaders will convene in Brussels for a special two-day summit on Wednesday and Thursday (17 and 18 April).
The agenda was initially focused on discussions about the bloc’s competitiveness and relations with Turkey. However, some member states are now urging for a debate on Ukraine, particularly in response to Kyiv’s request for air defense supplies following a recent Russian aerial attack on the country’s energy infrastructure.
Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, mentioned on social media that both Kyiv and Paris are aware of the location of these air defense systems and emphasized the urgent need for action to protect the country.
It is estimated that Ukraine requires at least 25 Patriot air defense systems for its defense.
During the summit, EU leaders are expected to emphasize the importance of the Cyprus settlement talks in the context of EU-Turkey cooperation, as well as discuss the situation in the Middle East, including Lebanon, following Iran’s recent attack against Israel.
Additionally, Dutch farmers are planning to protest against EU regulations on animal manure on Tuesday ahead of the summit.
European Parliament Agenda
Meanwhile, in the European Parliament, MEPs will prepare for the final plenary session of the legislature from 22 to 25 April. Pending files include topics such as the right to repair, new ecodesign rules, combating trafficking in human beings, and anti-money laundering measures.
The Foreign Affairs Committee will receive an update from Montenegro’s prime minister regarding reforms related to enlargement, as Montenegro has been in accession negotiations with the EU since 2012.
On Thursday, MEPs in the Women’s Rights Committee will exchange views with the Commissioner for Equality on the achievements of the legislative term.
There will also be a screening of the documentary “20 Days in Mariupol” in the European Parliament on Wednesday, with the attendance of Ukrainian officials, EU commissioners, and leaders of EU political groups.
Future Social Agenda
The Belgian EU Presidency is hosting a conference on the European Pillar of Social Rights in La Hulpe, Belgium, where a declaration on the Future Social Agenda is expected to be signed by various stakeholders.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights Nicolas Schmit will speak at the event. Additionally, there will be an informal meeting of energy ministers and a gathering of EU ministers responsible for consumer protection to discuss various topics.
Furthermore, an international humanitarian conference to support Sudan will take place in Paris, marking a year since the conflict began. G7 foreign affairs ministers will also convene in Italy to discuss global issues such as the situation in the Middle East and Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
