The Council is approving UK participation in the EU’s Ukraine support loan framework to help cover Ukraine’s urgent defence needs in the face of continued Russian aggression. 

Overview of the main subjects to be discussed at meetings of the Council of the EU over the next two weeks and upcoming media events.

The Council imposed restrictive measures on one individual and five entities, that are part of the Russian military-industrial complex, and are involved in drone manufacturing.

The High Representative issued a statement on behalf of the European Union on the occasion of the 12th anniversary of the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17.

The High Representative issued a statement on behalf of the European Union on the inaugural session of the People’s Assembly in Syria.

The Council appointed Mr. Antero Lopes as head of the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX Kosovo), from 10 August 2026 to 14 June 2027.

The High Representative issued a statement on behalf of the EU on International Criminal Justice Day.

Council greenlights signature and provisional application of EU agreement with Andorra and San Marino.

Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1542 of 3 July 2026 concerning restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons.

The Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement on the proposal to establish the programme for agile and rapid defence innovation (AGILE), a new €115 million instrument designed to provide rapid, agile and targeted financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises.

Today, the Council agreed its position on the 2027 EU draft budget – the last annual budget of the current multiannual financial framework.

EU support will help member states implement the pact on migration and asylum, ensure efficient management of the EU’s external borders, and fight crime.

The temporary protection status granted to those fleeing Ukraine will be extended until 4 March 2028, delivering on the EU’s commitment to support Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes.

The ninth meeting of the Accession Conference with Albania was held today provisionally closing chapters 25 (science and research), 26 (education and culture), and 30 (external relations).

At the third meeting of the Accession Conference, the EU and Moldova opened negotiations on the EU acquis related to external relations. 

The 28th meeting of the Accession Conference with Montenegro provisionally closed chapters 8 on competition policy and 29 on customs union

Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1364 concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.

The Council authorised the formal conclusion of the EU-Mexico Interim Trade Agreement, following the European Parliament’s consent.

On the third meeting of the Accession Conference, the EU and Ukraine opened negotiations on the EU acquis related to external relations.

The Council sanctioned 15 Russian individuals and one entity responsible for serious human rights violations against Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees.