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The Council discussed Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, after an informal exchange of views with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine AndriiSybiha via videoconference.
The ensuing ministerial discussion focused on the impact of the Middle East crisis on Ukraine and Russia’s war of aggression, particularly its military and energy repercussions.
Ministers were clear that Ukraine remains Europe’s top security priority, and attention for Ukraine will not be allowed to fizzle out. The same drones that are hitting Kyiv are hitting the states of Gulf, so as Ukraine has the best drone defences we also discussed briefly how we can put these things together.
Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and President of the Foreign Affairs Council
The Council also discussed support for Ukraine, including through the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan for the years 2026-2027, and ways to further increase pressure on Russia.
Europe will maintain sanctions and continue to move away from Russian fossil fuels. If we want this war to end, Moscow must have less money for the war, not more. Dialling up pressure on Russia's shadow fleet is one of the best tools we have.
Kaja Kallas,High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and President of the Foreign Affairs Council
The Council listed nine individuals responsible for the Bucha massacre of February and March 2022.
It also adopted additional restrictive measures against four individuals responsible for Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) against the EU and its member states and partners, and approved conclusions on advancing the EU’s capacity to counter hybrid threats.
EU foreign affairs ministers discussed the situation in the Middle East in light of the latest developments regarding the war in Iran and its effects across the region.
Iran
Ministers expressed deep concern about the continued escalation and the risk of a wider regional conflict. They highlighted that the only sustainable way out of the crisis is a cessation of hostilities, a ceasefire and a return to diplomacy.
Ministers also discussed the broader implications of the conflict, including risks to regional stability, global trade routes, financial markets and energy prices. Particular concern was expressed about the security of maritime routes and the need to preserve freedom of navigation, including in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz.
Restarting the shipments of fertilisers, food and energy through the Strait of Hormuz is an urgent priority. […] EU already has naval operations in place. We have ASPIDES that plays a key role in safeguarding the freedom of navigation. There was in our discussions a clear wish to strengthen this operation.
Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and President of the Foreign Affairs Council
The protection of EU citizens in the region was highlighted as a key priority. Ministers noted the ongoing coordination between member states and the use of EU instruments to facilitate repatriations and consular assistance.
This is not Europe's war, but Europe's interests are directly at stake. As this war expands, the EU's priority remains the protection of our citizens.
Kaja Kallas,High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and President of the Foreign Affairs Council
Ministers stressed the importance of supporting the Iranian civil society and of continued engagement with regional partners, including countries of the Gulf region, to support de-escalation efforts and regional security.
The Council decided to impose restrictive measures on an additional 16 persons and three entities responsible for serious human rights violations in Iran.
Ministers addressed the situation in Lebanon, expressing concern about the risk of the country being further drawn into the conflict and the humanitarian consequences of ongoing hostilities and large-scale displacement.
Ministers stressed the need for de-escalation and called for the disarmament of Hezbollah, while urging Israel to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further destabilise the country. They also highlighted the importance of continued support for Lebanon’s stability and state institutions.
The EU will provide 100 million euro in humanitarian aid to Lebanon. We also continue to support the Lebanese Armed Forces to disarm Hezbollah.
Kaja Kallas,High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and President of the Foreign Affairs Council
Gaza and the West Bank
Ministers stressed that the ongoing escalation in the region should not divert attention from the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. They expressed serious concern about the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the insufficient flow of humanitarian aid, stressing the need to ensure full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access in line with international humanitarian law. They also reiterated the need to move forward with the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan to end the Gaza Conflict, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2803.
Ministers also expressed concern about the escalating violence in the West Bank, including attacks by violent settlers, and underlined the need to protect civilians, ensure accountability and prevent further escalation. They reiterated the importance of preserving the viability of the two-state solution and supporting reform efforts by the Palestinian Authority.
EU will continue to press for improved humanitarian access, de-escalation and also support for Palestinian authorities' reforms.
Kaja Kallas,High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and President of the Foreign Affairs Council
Ministers exchanged views on the EU relations with the Southern Neighbourhood, taking stock of the implementation of the Pact for the Mediterranean launched in October 2025.
Ministers highlighted the importance of strengthening the EU’s partnership with countries in the Southern Neighbourhood to promote stability, economic development and prosperity across the Mediterranean. They stressed the need to move forward with the implementation of the Pact and to deliver tangible results through concrete initiatives and projects.
Ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council, an informal exchange took place over breakfast on the European security strategy.
It's clear that the security environment is changing fast, and we cannot respond with emergency summits alone. We need a long-term policy.
Kaja Kallas, High Representative, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and President of the Foreign Affairs Council
Over lunch, ministers were joined by the Indian minister for external affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar for an informal discussion on bilateral relations and international developments.
Other items
During the meeting, Germany and France raised the situation in Georgia, in light of the recent adoption of the legislative package on foreign funding and political activity.
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania informed ministers about Russia’s allegations against the Baltic states of non-compliance with the international Convention on the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination (CERD).
Italy and Malta briefed ministers about the escalating maritime and environmental threat in the Mediterranean involving the Russian LNG carrier Arctic Metagaz.
Other decisions
The Council adopted a decision to support African countries in strengthening their capacities for mine action, contributing to the goal of a mine-free Africa.
The Council adopted restrictive measures against three entities and two individuals responsible for cyber-attacks carried out against EU member states and EU partners.
