EU leaders meet in Brussels for two-day summit

On June 18 and 19, 2026, the 27 European Union leaders are gathering in Brussels for a summit marking the conclusion of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU. Key agenda items include the new Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034, macroeconomic balances, the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East, and European defense and security. A primary focus is the presentation of the new 'nego-box' negotiation framework for the financial budget, which for the first time includes indicative figures for specific pillars. Agreements have already been reached on National and Regional Partnership Plans, the European Competitiveness Fund, and the Global Europe program. President Nikos Christodoulides will present a report on the achievements of the outgoing Cypriot Presidency before handing over the rotating presidency to Ireland. The European People's Party leaders are scheduled to hold a separate meeting at 4:00 p.m. Cyprus time, followed by the European Council session at 7:00 p.m. Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna described the progress on the budget as a decisive step toward reaching a final agreement.