European Council

The Council adopted today an agreement for a partial negotiating mandate on the proposed Single market and customs programme regulation, part of the next MFF.

During the press conference held at the end of the European Council meeting of 18-19 December 2025, President António Costa presented the main results of the discussions.

The European Council discussed the latest developments as regards Ukraine.

On 18 December, the European Council adopted conclusions on Ukraine, the Middle East, European defence and security, next multiannual financial framework, enlargement and reforms, migration, geoeconomy and competitiveness and other items.

On 18 December, the European Council adopted conclusions on the Middle East, European defence and security, next multiannual financial framework, enlargement and reforms, migration and other items.

A Joint Declaration on EU legislative priorities for 2026 was signed today by the Presidents of Parliament, Council and Commission.

The Council formally adopted the targeted revision to simplify the EU deforestation regulation and postpone its application to ensure effective implementation.

Council signs off simplification of Common Agricultural Policy.

The Council of the EU and the European Parliament have provisionally agreed on an EU law establishing a list of safe countries of origin.

Council adopts measures to incentivise and simplify defence investments in the EU.

The Council imposed restrictive measures on an additional 41 vessels that are part of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ of oil tankers and contribute to Russia’s energy revenues.

Before the start of the European Council meeting of 18-19 December 2025, European Council President António Costa addressed the press in Brussels.

The Council and the European Parliament agreed on an updated retail investment framework to empower and protect consumers when they invest. It will also help to foster trust and increase competitiveness in the EU’s financial markets.

The Council of the EU and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement on a regulation regarding the application of the safe third country concept.

President of the European Council António Costa presented the main results of the discussions of the leaders during the EU-Western Balkans summit held in Brussels on 17 December 2025.

The Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional deal on the regulation on EU-Mercosur safeguard clauses, ensuring swift and strong action to protect EU farmers.

The EU-Western Balkans summit took place in Brussels on 17 December 2025. The Brussels declaration was issued.

Main agenda items, approximate timing, public sessions and press opportunities.

The Council adopted conclusions on Europe's Environment 2030, calling for urgent, systemic action for climate resilience and a circular economy to meet the EU's goals.

The 24th meeting of the Accession Conference with Montenegro provisionally closed chapters 3 on right of establishment and freedom to provide services, 4 on free movement of capital and 6 on company law.