The Council of the European Union has received a report from the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy setting out the bloc's foreign and security policy priorities for 2026. The document, published on 2 July 2026, details the EU's response to Russia's war against Ukraine, rising global contestation, and the need to strengthen the EU's role as a global security actor.
The report reaffirms the EU's unwavering support to Ukraine, including military, financial, and humanitarian aid, and efforts towards a just and lasting peace. It also calls for maintaining and expanding sanctions pressure on Russia, targeting its economy, military-industrial complex, and circumvention networks. The EU's comprehensive support for Ukraine, including a EUR 90 billion loan, may accelerate Ukraine's integration with Europe but could also strain EU budgets.
A central element of the report is the Defence Readiness agenda, which includes the White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030 and the Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030. The EU's enhanced defence readiness and increased military spending could lead to a more autonomous European defence posture and reduced reliance on the US. The report also emphasises deepening security and defence partnerships with key partners such as the UK, Canada, Japan, India, and Australia, as well as with international organisations like NATO, the UN, and the African Union.
The report outlines efforts to strengthen the EU's capacity to counter hybrid threats, cyber-attacks, and foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). This increased focus may improve EU resilience but could also raise concerns about censorship and freedom of expression. In the neighbourhood, the EU aims to promote stability and resilience in the Western Balkans, Eastern Partnership, and Southern Mediterranean. Globally, the EU plans to enhance cooperation with Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America through strategic partnerships, trade agreements, and Global Gateway investments.
The report also reaffirms the EU's commitment to upholding the rules-based international order, effective multilateralism, and human rights, including support for the UN and international law. The EU's proactive engagement in conflict zones such as the Middle East, Sahel, and Great Lakes could enhance its role as a security provider, but risks mission creep and overextension.
Stakeholder impact - EU member states: Increased defence spending and military cooperation may benefit defence industries but could strain national budgets. Enhanced sanctions on Russia may affect trade with certain member states. - EU defence industry: The Defence Readiness agenda and increased military spending could boost demand for European defence equipment and technology, fostering innovation and competitiveness. - Russia: Sustained sanctions may further isolate its economy and limit its war capabilities, but could also escalate tensions and lead to retaliatory measures against EU interests. - Ukraine: Continued EU support, including financial and military aid, may accelerate Ukraine's integration with Europe but also create dependency on external assistance.
Institutional follow-up The report serves as a strategic overview for the Council, which is expected to discuss and endorse the priorities in upcoming meetings. The European Parliament may also hold debates on the CFSP report, and the Commission will be tasked with implementing specific actions, such as the Defence Readiness Roadmap and Global Gateway investments.