Costa arrives in Vilnius for official talks focusing on regional security, EU integration, and bilateral cooperation between Lithuania and the European Union.

Members of the European Parliament have agreed to begin negotiations with the EU Council regarding the introduction of a digital euro. This initiative aims to allow citizens to securely reduce their dependence on third-party service providers.

Five Western Balkan countries—Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia—have aligned their policies with the EU Council's decision on counter-terrorism measures.

Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius is scheduled to meet with Rytis Martikonis, head of the European Commission representation in Lithuania, to discuss preparations for the country's upcoming presidency of the EU Council.

Milan Knežević, leader of the Democratic People's Party (DNP), stated that the decision to form a new EU Council team for the Montenegrin language confirms that constitutional changes to standardize Serbian as an official language in Montenegro will not occur.

Discussions in Vilnius focused on the priorities for Lithuania's EU Council Presidency and Greece's preparations for its upcoming presidency in the first half of 2027, addressing key European issues like security and migration.

There are 'high expectations' for Ireland's upcoming presidency of the EU Council, which will take place amidst turbulent geopolitical conditions.

The EU Council's think tank has developed a program aimed at more efficient deployment of EU funds for Ukraine's defense against Russia and for post-war reconstruction efforts.

In an interview, Irish Ambassador Kevin Kolgan stated that Ireland is determined to make significant progress in the ad hoc working group for Montenegro's accession treaty during its EU Council presidency.

The European Commission has given a positive assessment for Cyprus to join Europe's border-free Schengen zone, with the matter now set to be presented to the Council of the European Union in September.

Irish church leaders have called on the Taoiseach to leverage Ireland's upcoming EU Council presidency to accelerate projects that serve the public benefit, a goal the Taoiseach reportedly shares.

Sligo and Lithuania are celebrating their EU Council presidency pairing by hosting a WB Yeats exhibition at County Hall.

European tourism organizations are expressing concern that new agreements between the EU Council and Parliament regarding passenger rights enforcement could negatively impact independent travel agents.

The European Commission has submitted key trade agreements with Indonesia to the EU Council for signature, aiming to open markets for European companies and boost investments in the region.

European Council President Antonio Costa stated that it might be possible to conclude negotiations with Montenegro before the end of the year, highlighting Montenegro's case as the Irish presidency of the EU Council begins in Dublin.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that up to five EU accession negotiation clusters could open in July under Ireland's EU Council presidency. This signals significant progress in Ukraine's bid to join the European Union.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola have commended Cyprus's presidency of the EU Council. They praised the island's leadership, effectiveness, and cooperation during its six-month term.

The EU Council has definitively approved legislative changes aimed at strengthening the position of European farmers. Among the notable new provisions is the prohibition of using meat-related terms, such as 'steak' or 'bacon,' for plant-based food products.

Ireland's Defence Minister stated that army loading trucks will be deployed if fuel protesters initiate blockades during the country's upcoming EU Council Presidency, which begins on July 1.

The EU Council of Energy Ministers approved the new European Grids Package, with sources from the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy highlighting Greece's significant contribution to the initiative.

The EU Council has formally adopted two regulations implementing the tariff commitments outlined in the EU-US Declaration of August 21, 2025, completing the legislative process.

The President of the European Council is facing criticism regarding his cabinet's contacts with Moscow, coming at a critical time as he prepares for the EU budget battle and a potential new mandate.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is required to pass a new law to eliminate roaming charges with the European Union, following the EU Council's decision to open negotiations for Western Balkan countries to join the 'Roam Like at Home' regime.

The President of the European Council highlighted unity following an EU summit held without Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán. Hungary's Justice Minister announced plans to initiate the closure of the Article 7 procedure against Hungary next week.

The EU General Affairs Council discussed the rule of law situation in Hungary, with Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath acknowledging progress and steps taken by the new Hungarian government, though noting not all issues are resolved.

The Council of the EU has decided to extend sanctions imposed in response to Russia’s illegal annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea and the city of Sevastopol until June 23, 2027.

Eurodeputies have rejected the EU Council's proposal to cut 32.8 billion euros from the European Commission's budget, stating it does not reflect current realities.

The Irish government is under increasing pressure to take action regarding the Aughinish Alumina plant, following calls from the Ukrainian ambassador for its shutdown.

Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chryssochoidis participated in the EU Council of Interior Ministers in Luxembourg, highlighting Schengen area security and external border protection as key priorities for 2026-2027.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu announced that Moldova is prepared for the next phase of its European integration process and anticipates the official opening of all negotiation clusters with the EU in the near future, including during Cyprus's EU Council presidency.

The EU Council has adopted further restrictive measures targeting several Israeli settlement organizations, including 'Nachala Settlement Movement,' 'Regavim,' 'Hashomer Yosh,' 'Amana,' and 'Gush Emunim,' as well as their leaders.

The Macedonian government has emphasized its strategic orientation towards the EU, citing the abolition of the EU Council's assessment mission and the opening of Reform Agenda funds as clear indicators of its European commitment.

Brussels journalists are reportedly surprised by the EU Council's plan to invite influencers to EU leader summits and ministerial meetings starting in July.

The Austrian Chancellor has stated that Hungary is once again becoming a constructive voice within the European Council, according to a report from Budapest Business Journal.

The Taoiseach met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. Their discussions took place ahead of Ireland's upcoming EU Council presidency.

The Deputy Ministry of Shipping of the Republic of Cyprus hosted a High-Level Conference in Brussels on 'Policy Shaping, Guiding…' within the framework of the EU Council Presidency, focusing on equality and inclusion in shipping.

Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni participated in the EU Council of Education, Youth, Culture, and Sport Ministers in Brussels, held under the Cypriot Presidency. She emphasized culture's critical role in European resilience and defense.

Greek Minister of Rural Development and Food, Margaritis Schinas, will participate in the EU Council of Agriculture Ministers in Luxembourg, where the primary agenda item will be the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) after 2027.

The EU Council has approved relaxations for new genetic engineering procedures, allowing them to be used more easily and without mandatory labeling, with final parliamentary approval expected in May.

In preparation for Lithuania's presidency of the EU Council, the government has approved the establishment of a deputy agricultural attaché position at the Lithuanian Embassy in Italy. The position will be active from August 1 of this year until August 30, 2027.

The Polish Ministry of Interior and Administration announced that Poland has been "exempted for many years" from the relocation mechanism within the EU migration pact, a claim that is being questioned by the article, citing explanations from the EU Council.

The leader of Croatia's SDP party, Siniša Hajdaš Dončić, commented in Parliament on Prime Minister Andrej Plenković's report from the latest European Council meeting, referencing past political figures Račan and Sanader.

The Council of the European Union has adopted new rules to enhance consumer protection for package travel users across the bloc, updating the existing framework for combined travel services.

The Council of the European Union has formally appointed Francois-Louis Michaud to take up his position as chair of the European Banking Authority on April 16, 2026.

The EU Council chief reaffirmed support for Pakistan's peace efforts in the Middle East during a call with Prime Minister Shehbaz, who shared updates on Pakistan's mediation to de-escalate the crisis.

The Lithuanian Ministry of Environment has announced a public procurement for organizing international events during Lithuania's presidency of the European Union Council, earmarking up to 3.8 million euros for the services.

Thirty-seven Members of the European Parliament, including Mārtiņš Staķis, have urged the European Commission and the EU Council to suspend EU funding for the Venice Biennale if Russia is allowed to participate in the 61st Venice Art Biennale.

The English language proficiency of Lithuanian ministers is being discussed, recalling a past check by former President Dalia Grybauskaitė as the country's EU Council presidency approaches again.

Reports indicate that Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó regularly communicated with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, informing him about the progress of EU Council discussions.

A new survey reveals that nine out of ten Cypriot fishers believe government actions are inadequate to ensure the survival of the sector, with the findings released during Cyprus's EU Council Presidency.

German Chancellor Merz delivered a government statement ahead of the European Council meeting, emphasizing that Germany will not 'sell itself short' and discussing key democratic dates. He called for the EU to act self-confidently and unitedly in an uncertain world, urging the community to better leverage its political and economic strengths.

EU Council President António Costa stated that dialogue with Russia is necessary, though not yet, ahead of a summit in Brussels, and expressed expectations that Hungary will cease blocking EU loans to Ukraine.

PRESIDENT of the European Council, Costa, stated that Hungary cannot block a 90 billion euro loan for Ukraine, despite Orban's threats.

All informal European Union councils will proceed as planned in Cyprus between April and June, according to Cypriot Energy Minister Michalis Damianou, as Cyprus holds the rotating EU presidency.

The Cyprus Union of Journalists (ESK) is calling for an immediate inquiry by the House Interior Committee into the government's attempt to establish a state body as the sole authority for issuing journalist accreditation during Cyprus's EU Council Presidency.

EU country ambassadors, meeting as permanent representatives, have provided guidelines for the next steps in establishing an ad hoc working group to draft the Accession Treaty with Montenegro, according to sources from the EU Council.

German Andreas Ritter has been approved by the EU Council to succeed Laura Codruța Kövesi as the European Public Prosecutor, with his term set to begin on November 1, 2026.

The European Union Council has listed 31 meat-referencing words that should not be used to describe plant-based or vegan products, clarifying rules for vegetarian food labeling.

A parliamentary delegation is attending a conference on the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy in Cyprus, organized by the Cypriot parliament as part of its EU Council presidency.

A new poll reveals that the Irish public has an overwhelming lack of confidence in the Government's preparedness for security ahead of Ireland holding the presidency of the EU Council later this year.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee was questioned about Ireland's lack of security agreements with other countries ahead of its upcoming EU Council Presidency.

The President of the European Council emphasized the necessity of a unified European defense strategy by 2030, alongside climate action and budget reforms, to secure the Union's long-term future.

Montenegro is facing the challenge of finding enough qualified professionals to translate its laws for the European Union, as the country progresses towards EU membership, with the EU Council establishing a Montenegrin language team in Brussels.

The Cypriot president is criticized for a perceived lack of urgency regarding the UN's peace initiative, which is set to resume after Cyprus's EU Council presidency concludes.

Lithuania is actively preparing for its presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2027, with discussions including the possibility of seeking changes to the EU migration pact.

Ireland's Presidency of the EU Council has initiated discussions on a significant overhaul of Europe's climate policy, with early talks revealing emerging divisions among member states.

Cyprus's Deputy Culture Minister Lina Kassianidou stated that the international promotion of Cypriot artists was the greatest cultural achievement during the country's EU Council presidency.

Greece is set to take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from July 1 to December 31, 2027. The role involves organizing ministerial meetings and advancing the European agenda.

The European Union Council has approved new guidelines for its tourism strategy extending to 2030, with a central focus on promoting sustainable development, digitalization, and combating overtourism.

The EU Council has appointed German diplomat Dirk Schiebel as the new EU Special Representative for Kosovo and has also extended the mandates of its representatives for Bosnia and the Horn of Africa.

EU finance ministers have confirmed the initiation of an excessive deficit procedure for Bulgaria. The EU Council will decide whether to formally begin the procedure against the country.

Irish artist Richard Malone is showcasing his distinctive fabric sculptures in the glass buildings of Brussels during Ireland's EU presidency.

Economist Marek Tatała argues that Europe must urgently strengthen its competitiveness and productivity, emphasizing the need to translate announcements into decisions during Ireland's EU Council presidency.

The EU Council has made a decision that allows for oil expansion projects to qualify for sustainable funds, a move that has drawn criticism.

Ireland is set to take over the EU Council presidency, but its term is overshadowed by a scandal involving an Irish-based Russian aluminum producer exporting to Russia.

Lithuania's Ministry of Finance has announced that its key priorities during the country's presidency of the EU Council in the first half of 2027 will include the multi-annual financial program and continued financial support for Ukraine.

Key news headlines for Wednesday, July 1, 2026, include an agreement on state reform, updates on Kylian Mbappe, and Ireland assuming the EU Council Presidency.

Ireland's presidency of the EU Council is reportedly struggling, particularly in the two most strategically important policy areas: military security and digital policy. The country is perceived as the weakest link among the 27 member states in these sectors.

The EU Council is encouraging member states to strengthen wildfire prevention through sustainable forest and land management, and to improve preparedness by increasing data utilization.

As the new President of the EU Council, Ireland will mediate discussions among member states regarding proposed changes to the EU's Emissions Trading System, a crucial climate policy instrument.

Swedish Climate Minister Romina Pourmokhtari made headlines by attending an EU Council meeting with her three-month-old baby in a carrier, marking a rare and notable instance of a minister bringing an infant to such a high-level European gathering.

Montenegro's Minister of European Affairs, Maida Gorčević, announced during a visit to Ireland that the next Intergovernmental Conference is set for July 14, immediately after Ireland assumes the EU Council presidency.

Scholarships linked to Cyprus' EU Council Presidency have increased to 110 places, boosting opportunities for students pursuing postgraduate studies in Cyprus.

Ireland is set to take over the EU Council presidency on July 1, amidst increasing pressure on its government regarding a company operating in the country that continues to export large quantities of alumina to Russia.

The EU Council did not support an accelerated start to eurointegration talks for Moldova and Ukraine, with Hungary and other EU members opposing it. Instead, a 'level playing field' approach for all candidates was endorsed.

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis stated in Sarajevo that the integration of the Western Balkans is a top priority for Greece's presidency of the Council of the EU. He emphasized that the enlargement process for the Western Balkans is once again a leading European priority.

Representatives of the 27 EU member states unanimously condemned Moscow's attacks on UNESCO sites in Kyiv but showed hesitation regarding Ukraine's full EU membership.

The EU Council's Working Group on Enlargement (COELA) has begun reviewing the screening results for five additional negotiation clusters for Moldova and Ukraine, initiating the official technical phase of their EU accession talks.

After over a decade of negotiations, the European Parliament and the EU Council have reached an agreement to reform air passenger rights, which includes maintaining compensation for delays and eliminating additional charges for basic hand luggage.

Cyprus Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas praised the EU Council's adoption of an agreement with Canada, which will integrate Canadian companies and products into the EU's €150 billion Security Action Plan for procurement.

European Council President Antonio Košta announced an EU member state summit for June 18-19 in Brussels, stating in his invitation letter that "Ukraine remains a priority" for the European Union.

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, during a visit to Dublin, emphasized that no country in Europe has been removed from Russia's list of targets, highlighting the critical timing of Ireland's upcoming EU Council presidency.

Lithuanian officials, including President Nausėda and Budrys, have discussed the priorities for Lithuania's upcoming presidency of the EU Council with European Parliament members and the President of Albania. These discussions aim to outline the country's agenda during its leadership role.

Legendary virtuoso pianist Cyprien Katsaris will perform with the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra in a celebratory concert on June 30, marking the closing event of Cyprus' cultural program as president of the EU Council.

New lawsuits have been registered at the EU Court of Justice seeking to lift sanctions against the wives and family members of high-ranking Russian officials, including 'Ignatova v. EU Council'.

Under its EU Council Presidency, Cyprus will host a high-level industrial forum in Larnaca on May 28, 2026, to discuss the strategic importance of raw materials for European resilience.

The EU Council is reportedly planning to invite social media influencers to meetings of ministers and EU leaders. This initiative aims to leverage influencers for better engagement on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

The European Parliament has approved the start of negotiations with the EU Council regarding the review of periodic technical inspections and roadside checks for vehicles.

European Parliament Vice-President Nicolae Ștefănuță stated that while opening the first cluster of EU accession negotiations with Moldova by the end of the Cypriot EU Council presidency is possible, it is not probable.

The Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council and the European Parliament have reached a provisional political agreement on the Critical Medicines Act (CMA), establishing a legal framework to enhance the Union's resilience against medicine supply challenges.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda met with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković in Dubrovnik to discuss Lithuania's upcoming EU Council presidency priorities, historical memory, bilateral relations, and European security.

Northern Cyprus's 'prime minister' Unal Ustel accused the EU of a "biased and unfair" approach to the Cyprus problem following an informal EU council summit, criticizing the bloc's position on regional developments.

The EU Council chief conveyed hopes for a US-Iran deal during a call with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz, expressing appreciation for Pakistan's constructive role and affirming the EU's readiness to support the peace process.

The Saudi Crown Prince held a meeting with the President of the European Council.

Cyprus holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union at a time when Brussels' celebrated openness is facing a significant test. The European Parliament prides itself on being the most open, but challenges remain.

The President of the European Council, António Costa, has stated that attacks targeting civilian populations are illegal under international law.

Cyprus utilized its participation in the European Maritime Skills Forum in Brussels to promote stronger maritime education and workforce development, emphasizing the role of seafarers in its EU Council Presidency agenda.

The Council of the European Union has given final approval for the establishment of the 'EU talent platform,' completing the legislative process for this initiative aimed at connecting EU employers with workers from outside the Union.

The EU Council President engaged in a positive diplomatic exchange with Pakistan, focusing on various aspects of international relations.

European lawmakers have approved discussions with the EU Council on a contentious new legal framework aimed at establishing mechanisms across the bloc for deporting illegal migrants, including the creation of 'return centers' outside EU borders, sparking human rights debates.

Cyprus is experiencing a daily phenomenon of cyberattacks, attributed to ongoing geopolitical tensions and the country's role as president of the European Council until the end of June.

This week's energy news covers changes in CO2 trading and highlights top renewable energy companies, with the European Council confirming the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) will remain and a review proposed by July 2026.

Montenegrin President Milatović expressed Montenegro's anticipation for Ireland's upcoming presidency of the EU Council, emphasizing the shared values that unite the two nations.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is in Brussels to attend the celebratory event marking 50 years since the founding of the European People's Party, and will also participate in the European Council Summit.

Ahead of a crucial summit, EU Council President António Costa stated that dialogue with Russia is necessary, but the time is not yet right for such discussions.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stressed during an online address to the Council of the European Union that the approval of a €90 billion loan from the European Union cannot be contingent on the operation of the Druzhba oil pipeline.

The EU Council has decided to impose restrictive measures on four individuals, including a journalist, for their involvement in Russia's ongoing hybrid activities, specifically manipulation and interference.

Greek Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou stated upon his arrival at the EU Council on energy issues that Europe must be prepared with targeted measures for another international crisis testing its reflexes.

The EU Council has confirmed the appointment of Andrés Ritter, currently Deputy Chief Prosecutor, as the new Chief Prosecutor for the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), with his term beginning November 1.

Russia's central bank has filed a lawsuit in the EU court in Kirchberg after the EU Council extended the freezing of Russian funds indefinitely.

The public has expressed an overwhelming lack of confidence in the Government’s preparedness for security ahead of Ireland holding the presidency of the EU Council later this year.

Cyprus's Deputy Tourism Minister, Kostas Koumis, stated that sustainable and resilient tourism will be a key priority for the EU council presidency, addressing a conference in Nicosia on climate action and competitiveness in Mediterranean destinations.

Ireland is preparing for its six-month stint in the influential role of EU Council presidency, which will involve significant deal-making and consume a lot of the government's bandwidth.

EU Council President Costa's guest commentary highlights defense, competitiveness, EU enlargement, and continued support for Ukraine as top priorities for Europe's future.

A Lithuanian agency, 'Pirmoji kava' owned by Jogaila Morkūnas, won a public procurement tender to organize events for Lithuania's presidency of the EU Council by offering a negative price, proposing to pay 1 euro for the right to organize 21 events.

The EU Council of Ministers has gone against the European Parliament regarding the surveillance of private messages, reigniting discussions about a democratic deficit within the European Union concerning regulation (2021/1232).

The Council of the European Union has revised Ukraine's reform plan, aiming to unlock €8.3 billion in funding for 2026. This revision is part of ongoing efforts to support Ukraine's recovery and development.

The EU Council has approved a new temporary regulation to extend rules allowing the detection and removal of child sexual abuse content on online platforms, following the expiration of previous provisional measures on April 3.

Hungary has refused to approve the screening results for negotiation clusters 2 and 3 for Ukraine and Moldova during a July 22 meeting of the EU Council's Working Party on Enlargement (COELA). The next attempt to approve these clusters is scheduled for September 1.

Serbia will not open Cluster 3 for EU accession by the end of summer, as the issue was not on the agenda for the last meetings of the EU Council bodies before the summer recess.

Despite promises of high presence, German ministers are frequently absent from EU Council meetings in Brussels, an analysis by ARD's Brussels studio revealed.

Lithuanian Interior Minister Martynas Katelynas is set to participate in an informal European Union council of interior and justice ministers, where discussions will focus on combating organized crime, visa policy, and border management.

Cyprus's President is reportedly looking for a new position for Marilena Raouna, the deputy minister of European Affairs, whose contract is set to expire after the country's EU council presidency.

Cypriot officials, including Ioannou and CySEC, have highlighted the country's achievements and role during its EU Council Presidency. They emphasized the successful navigation of key issues and contributions made during their term.

The Council of the European Union is expected to approve additional sanctions against Russia on Monday, July 13, in response to its large-scale attacks on Ukraine.

Paulius Baltokas, advisor to the Lithuanian President, expressed skepticism about Prime Minister-designate Mindaugas Sinkevičius's desire to represent Lithuania in European Council meetings concerning economic issues.

Ireland has commenced its presidency of the European Union Council, with politicians emphasizing a commitment to achieving practical results during their six-month term.

Also: Ireland took over the EU Council presidency this week and most of the country barely noticed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Ireland for an official visit. His visit coincides with Ireland's presidency of the EU Council, which is described as coming at a decisive time.

The Irish Ambassador to Montenegro, Kevin Kolgan, stated that Ireland will help Montenegro close as many negotiation chapters as possible during its EU Council presidency, noting a desire for enlargement.

Cyprus formally closed its six-month presidency of the EU Council, marked by emotion and praise at the Filoxenia Conference Centre, as officials reflected on the period and looked to the future.

The EU Council has decided to ban the term 'vegan steaks' as part of efforts to strengthen the position of European farmers. This move aims to protect traditional meat product designations.

Ireland will take over the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union from Cyprus on July 1, with Micheál Martin stating it will work to support all Europeans.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held an informal meeting with European Council President António Costa and engaged with Kazakh citizens in Brussels ahead of key EU talks.

Ireland's ombudsman, Niall Muldoon, warns that an underfunded Tusla will be unable to cope with the increasing demand for its services, despite Ireland's opportunity to lead on children's rights during its EU council presidency.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda gave an interview to Bloomberg, sharing his thoughts on a potential new coalition government. This discussion comes as he prepares to attend the European Council meeting in Brussels.

Greece is requesting a delay in the implementation of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive at the EU Council of Health Ministers. The country argues that its enforcement on January 1, 2027, would lead to increased prices for citizens.

Denmark's first Secretary-General of the EU Council of Ministers has passed away.

The EU Council has reportedly blocked a euro coin design that attributes the Cyrillic script as Bulgarian, causing a significant stir. The specific country that filed the objection and its reasoning remain undisclosed.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is expected to address the Chambers on Wednesday ahead of the European Council on June 18-19, with Ukraine being the main topic of her speech, following her absence from a London summit.

European Council President Antonio Costa stated in Belgrade that the EU is not blackmailing anyone regarding accession, but rather seeking solutions for necessary reforms, addressing potential frustrations in Serbia.

Cyprus' Deputy Culture Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou stated that protecting culture and heritage is a key priority for Cyprus during an informal meeting of EU culture ministers in Nicosia. She emphasized this role as EU Council President.

The Macedonian government's strategic approach to artificial intelligence in education aligns with recent EU Council conclusions from May 2026, advocating for an ethical, safe, and human-centered approach to this technology, while emphasizing the irreplaceable role of teaching staff.

Brussels-based journalists are reportedly surprised and concerned by the European Council's new plan to invite social media influencers to EU summits, offering them 'exclusive experiences' behind the scenes.

The EU Council has decided to suspend customs duties for one year on essential nitrogen-based fertilizers, including urea and ammonia, used in agricultural production within the EU.

Diplomats and MEPs have agreed on stricter immigration rules and return centers outside the EU, but are still disputing when the reform will come into effect.

Diplomatic missions in Cyprus issued a joint statement warning of a global rollback of LGBT rights and urged Cyprus to advance a national equality strategy during its EU council presidency.

Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni spoke at the EU Council of Culture Ministers, emphasizing the need for transparency in AI training data and protecting creators, while condemning the instrumentalization of culture during armed conflicts.

Cyprus and Egypt have signed a joint declaration on a strategic partnership, significantly upgrading relations between the two countries during the Informal EU Council summit in Nicosia.

The EU Council has approved new genetically modified organisms (GMOs), a decision that has prompted environmental organizations to launch a petition and campaign against the move.

Cyprus is hosting an innovative cultural event titled 'Fashion Fighting Stigma' as part of its EU Council Presidency 2026, utilizing fashion to promote empathy, awareness, and social change for better mental health.

The EU Council has approved the Czech plan to use funds from the European financial instrument SAFE, established last year, which allows loans for military equipment, enabling the Czech Republic to utilize 2.06 billion euros.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys stated that discussions about the Prime Minister potentially representing Lithuania in the European Council instead of the President are not currently on the political agenda.

European leaders will convene for an Informal European Council in Nicosia on April 23-24 to discuss European defense, specifically addressing the EU's mutual defense clause and its implications.

The Council of the European Union has approved a regulation to establish an EU talent pool, a new digital platform designed to connect non-EU jobseekers with employers across the bloc to tackle labor shortages.

The EU Council has given its final approval to new rules for CO2 emissions, allowing manufacturers to accumulate credits until 2029 if their emissions remain below their annual targets.

Greek Minister of Rural Development and Food, Kostas Tsiaras, attended the European Council of Agriculture and Fisheries in Brussels, emphasizing the need for EU-level decisions to support the primary sector amidst war and high energy costs for fishermen.

Montenegro's EU integration is progressing, with gratitude expressed to Hungary for its strong support, particularly during its EU Council presidency when Montenegro closed three negotiation chapters.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reacted to media reports, stating it's "no surprise" that Poland has long suspected Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto's contacts with Moscow might involve sharing details of EU Council meetings.

Twenty countries condemned Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's veto at the EU Council meeting, where the war in Ukraine was a central focus. EU leaders reaffirmed their strong support for Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity while increasing pressure on Russia.

The escalation in the Middle East is expected to dominate the European Council meeting, with discussions on its lasting effects on energy and the economy. Experts warn of a potentially longer war than anticipated.

Italian Minister Pichetto Fratin announced plans to meet with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to discuss Italy's stance on emissions and the ETS ahead of the European Council, where they will request a reduction due to high costs.

A spokesperson for the EU Council stated that despite intentions to limit the exemption to a law concerning child pornography detection, member states decided that such limitations would render the law 'ineffective,' leading to the exemption's expiration in April.

Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou, emphasized the urgent need for a unified European energy market and called for targeted measures and flexibility in energy policy during his address to the EU Council of Energy Ministers.

Linking the release of the EUR 90 billion loan approved for Ukraine to the operation of the Druzhba oil pipeline is unacceptable.

Cyprus's Energy Minister, Michalis Damianou, announced that all informal EU councils scheduled between April and June will take place in Cyprus as planned.

European Council President Antonio Costa stated at the annual conference of EU ambassadors in Brussels that the momentum in EU enlargement extends to all Western Balkan partners, emphasizing the need for the EU to prepare for future expansion.

European Council President Antonio Costa has stated that the European Union must strengthen its defensive and global role, emphasizing the need for the bloc to act as an independent actor in a time of crises and a 'multipolar world.'

Cyprus launched its anti-fraud agenda under the EU Council Presidency, hosting the first meeting of the Working Party on Combating Fraud in Brussels and welcoming the new director-general of the European Anti-Fraud Office (Olaf), Petr Klement. According to a statement from the general accounting office, the meeting was chaired last week, by the director of […]

A poll reveals that the Irish public has an overwhelming lack of confidence in the government's security preparedness as Ireland prepares to host the EU Council presidency later this year.

Sustainable and resilient tourism will be a key priority of the EU council presidency, Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis said on Friday, addressing a European conference in Nicosia on climate action and competitiveness in Mediterranean destinations. Addressing delegates, Koumis said tourism reflects its “strategic importance for economic growth, social cohesion and regional development, particularly for […]