The summit will also discuss the single market, trade, defense, security and migration. There will also be a brief discussion of the next seven-year budget.
Another important item on Thursday’s agenda will be the widening war in the Middle East and the far-reaching consequences it has caused around the world.
Europeans were caught off guard when U.S. President Donald Trump sought their help last week to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran had blocked. As a result, global oil prices are still above $100 a barrel.
The idea of joining a military confrontation launched without the participation of Europe, which, moreover, does not depend on Middle Eastern oil supplies, was widely rebuffed by European leaders, who refused to take part.
As part of planning their future actions, European leaders are discussing measures to contain energy prices.
Tools such as temporary tax cuts, adjustments to the emissions trading system (ETS), and the use of strategic oil reserves are being considered. Eastern European countries (especially Poland) are pushing for ETS reform, as carbon charges account for up to 40% of their electricity costs.
