Raad Buitenlandse Zaken, 15 mei 2024

Main results

On 15 May 2024, the Chiefs of Defense (CHODs) of the 27 member states of the European Union assembled in Brussels to discuss the current security situation in the areas of the Union's interests. The EU Military Committee (EUMC) on CHODs level meeting takes place on a six-monthly basis at the highest level of the states' military leadership. 

During this day-long meeting, the highest ranking EU flag officers addressed the latest achievements, discussed the strategic environment and its challenges. Finally, they agreed on the processes to set up and fulfil the plans to cooperate and proceed toward a secure and prosperous Europe together. 

The focus of the discussions hinged around four main topics:

• the strategic outlook on the Sahel region of Africa, 
• the support to Ukraine,
• the security situation in the area of operation of EUNAVFOR ASPIDES and
• the Rapid Deployment Capacity (RDC).

In addition, a new Chairman of the EU Military Committee (CEUMC) was elected by his fellow Chiefs of Defence. Pending the approval of the Committee of the Permanent Representatives of the Governments of the member states to the European Union (COREPER), Lieutenant General Seán Clancy (Ireland) will take over responsibility as CEUMC by June 2025.

The next EUMC on CHODs level meeting is planned to be held in Hungary this fall under the forthcoming Hungarian presidency of the European Union.