Belgium was at the centre of EU politics on 19 December 2025 as leaders wrapped up a long Brussels summit after a night of talks. The main breakthrough concerned Ukraine, with agreement on an extra €90 billion in support for 2026 and 2027. The money will be structured as EU backed loans, using income linked to frozen Russian state assets rather than direct confiscation. The approach was designed to limit legal risks, including concerns raised by Belgium, where assets are held at Euroclear.
Trade proved more divisive. The EU Mercosur agreement was not finalised after objections led by Italy, where Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni pressed for stronger safeguards for farmers.
Leaders also discussed the next EU budget cycle, migration rules and enlargement, but left several questions unresolved. Outside the summit, farmer protests added pressure as talks dragged on.
