EU foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg on Monday will discuss the Middle East crisis and continued support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, top official Josep Borell said.
When it comes to the Middle East, the main question is how the EU can help prevent a regional escalation of the conflict.
With regard to Ukraine, the panel needs to clarify in the coming months how the EU should participate in planned security commitments from the West.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has suggested making longer-term financing commitments for military aid and also using EU money to support the delivery of modern fighter jets and missiles.
Specifically, he wants to mobilise 5 billion euro ($5.3 billion) annually from 2024 to the end of 2027.
Far-reaching decisions are not expected at Monday’s meeting. A number of EU member states have so far been reluctant to make new long-term financing commitments for Ukraine.
There are also differences when assessing Israel’s reaction to the attack by Hamas on Oct. 7.
For example, Spanish leaders openly accuse Israel of violating international law with its call for the evacuation of people in the Gaza Strip.
They also support calls for a ceasefire.
On the other hand, leaders from countries like Germany oppose this approach and emphasize Israel’s right to self-defence.
Another topic at the ministerial meeting is the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
In addition, there will be talks with representatives of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan after the meeting. (dpa/NAN)
