Originally Planned to Discuss Economic Stimulus, But Forced to Face Two Conflicts, EU Summit Forced to Shift Focus

【Global Times Special Correspondent Ren Zhong】The EU summit was held in Brussels from the 19th to the 20th. On the 19th, the European edition of Politico reported that EU leaders initially planned to focus on boosting Europe’s stagnant economy. However, they now have to hurriedly address two conflicts, deepening transatlantic rifts, and the €90 billion aid deadlock over Ukraine. What was originally a meeting to enhance competitiveness has been dominated by external crises and internal disagreements—topics range from providing financial aid to Ukraine to energy, defense, and climate policies.

Politico stated that the primary task of this summit was to clear obstacles for a large-scale EU loan considered vital for Kyiv’s finances. Hungary is still blocking the loan due to pipeline disputes. Czech Prime Minister Babiš said on the 19th he would not lobby Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán, as he is more concerned with European industry, warning that energy costs are soaring due to Middle East tensions. Belgian Prime Minister De Croo insisted that despite Hungary’s opposition, the EU must proceed with the €90 billion loan to Ukraine. He believes that leaders now need to fulfill existing agreements, and Europe must “continue to financially support Ukraine.”

Orbán on the 19th stated that Budapest would not support any “pro-Ukraine” decisions until the “Friendship” oil pipeline is restored. Politico reported that Orbán dismissed all assurances as “fairy tales” and insisted, “Oil must reach Hungary—that’s the new chapter.” France 24 reported that EU officials have been seeking compromise solutions. EU Commission President von der Leyen proposed funding pipeline repairs and developing alternative supply routes for Hungary and Slovakia, heavily dependent on Russian oil. Nonetheless, progress remains uncertain. Diplomats said dissatisfaction among member states is growing, with one diplomat noting that countries are increasingly “tired of the repeated obstructions.” German Chancellor Mertens delivered a tough speech before the summit, urging leaders to quickly approve Ukraine loans and impose a new round of sanctions on Russia.

Russia’s Novaya Gazeta reported on the 19th that whether to allocate €90 billion to Kyiv depends on Hungary’s stance at the EU summit. An EU diplomat said, “If the loan isn’t approved, Ukrainian President Zelensky will be very angry.” The Economist on the 18th noted that Ukraine and its European partners are experiencing a “marital quarrel phase.” Both sides have publicly shown hostility, growing impatient and even accusing each other of “extortion.” If the €90 billion aid plan is quickly approved, the issue might soon be forgotten. Currently, there are no broader cracks between Ukraine and Europe, but if cracks do appear in the future, this could be the beginning.

According to Ukraine’s national news agency on the 19th, Zelensky will deliver a speech at the summit. EU leaders are expected to discuss multiple issues, including the Ukraine situation and ways to increase pressure on Russia to end the war. Bulgaria’s national radio reported that besides Ukraine, EU leaders will also discuss Iran, high energy prices, and measures to address these challenges.

The Financial Times noted that Iran issues touch on a survival question for the EU: how to plan for the future independently under the shadow of an unpredictable and aggressive U.S. president. From Warsaw to Madrid, from Washington’s closest allies in Europe to leaders most skeptical of Trump, a clear message is being conveyed: “This is not our war.”

Politico reported that von der Leyen on the 19th said energy prices are “today’s top priority.” She warned that a further surge in energy prices could become a serious problem, plunging Europe into difficulty. Austrian Chancellor Schallenberg also pressured the EU to go beyond individual national measures to address rising energy costs, warning that the EU currently lacks sufficient efforts to protect industries.