Explainers

Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EU and its member states have significantly stepped up their military support for the Ukrainian armed forces. 

Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EU has taken a number of steps to help refugees fleeing the war, including through the EU temporary protection mechanism.

At ensuing European Council meetings between 2023 and 2026, EU leaders have adopted conclusions on the situation in the Middle East. The content of the page reflects the latest conclusions from 15-16 October 2026.

The EU and its member states have stood with Ukraine and its people since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion. Together, they are Ukraine's biggest provider of financial, economic, military and humanitarian support.

The EU is Ukraine's largest trading partner and its largest investor. Since the start of Russia's war of aggression, the EU has supported Ukraine's economy, including through targeted trade measures.

Together, the EU and its 27 member states are Ukraine's biggest provider of financial assistance. The goal is to finance the country's immediate needs and support its recovery and reconstruction in the long term.

The Common Security and Defence Policy enables the EU to deploy civilian and military missions and operations outside the EU, drawing on the operational capabilities of EU member states. 

EU sanctions can target governments of non-EU countries, entities and individuals. The EU can impose restrictive measures in order to implement UN resolutions, to reinforce UN sanctions or on its own initiative.

The EU supports the territorial integrity, sovereignty, stability and political independence of Lebanon and the Lebanese government's efforts towards reform.

The European Union and its member states are among the leading donors of humanitarian aid in the world, including to the Palestinian people, aiming to save lives, prevent and alleviate human suffering and maintain human dignity.