EU summit focus: China, Ukraine and bloc budget talks face mounting pressure
China trade and competitiveness
Leaders are expected to consider ways to address the EU’s trade deficit with China, which stood at €360 billion ($400.4 billion) last year and is forecast to rise this year. The talks come days after the European Commission and Beijing agreed on measures to curb Chinese hybrid-car imports.
The EU says Chinese state subsidies distort competition. Industry groups have linked rising imports to more factory closures across the bloc. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have called for EU action against market-distorting practices. Soaring energy prices are another concern for the bloc’s competitiveness.
Budget negotiations remain difficult
Leaders are also set to debate the EU’s seven-year budget for 2028 to 2034. Negotiations commonly divide wealthier net contributors from states that receive EU cohesion funds, and the budget needs unanimous approval.
The Brussels meeting is not expected to produce a breakthrough. Leaders hope to find a compromise by the end of the year, ahead of a special summit planned for November. Several member states face elections next year, adding pressure to settle the budget before political changes make agreement harder.
Ukraine support on Friday
Leaders are expected to turn to Ukraine on Friday, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy invited to attend. He is likely to seek more EU support as Russia steps up strikes ahead of winter, with dozens of civilians reported killed.
European aid is becoming more important as the United States, under President Donald Trump, follows an uncertain course on the conflict. The article cites a recent deal that secured Russian diesel imports despite international sanctions, and says Trump has called for Zelenskyy to be replaced as Ukraine’s leader.
Key points
- EU leaders will discuss China, Ukraine and the bloc’s 2028–2034 budget in Brussels.
- The EU’s China trade deficit reached €360 billion last year and is expected to increase.
- Budget approval requires unanimity, and leaders do not expect a breakthrough at this meeting.
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy is due to join Friday’s talks on Ukraine.