The Brussels meeting focused on Ukraine, particularly financial assistance, energy support, and preparing the EU’s next sanctions against Russia. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas chaired the Council, joined by Ukraine’s foreign minister Andrii Sybiha via video.
The agenda also covered the Middle East, following the UN Security Council’s approval of a US-draft resolution endorsing President Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, including an international stabilization force and a transitional governance framework.
Ukraine: energy security and shadow fleet crackdown. Minister Tajani reaffirmed Italy’s backing for Kyiv, with a focus on energy resilience and defence support.
- He highlighted work on the 12th Italian military assistance package and a mapping exercise to mobilise Italian companies capable of delivering generators, turbines, and substations to Ukraine.
- On sanctions, Italy supports keeping pressure on Moscow ahead of the 20th EU sanctions package.
- Tajani urged the EU to take action against Russia’s shadow fleet, citing operational experience from the missions Irini, Atalanta, and Aspides.
- Coordination with the US and efforts towards a ceasefire framework were also on the table.
Middle East: From the UN Resolution to the US Peace Plan. After the UN resolution on an international stabilisation force for Gaza, ministers discussed how the EU can support the US Peace Plan.
- Tajani said Italy is ready to boost contributions to EUBAM Rafah and EUPOL COPPS.
- On reconstruction, with Egypt set to host a dedicated conference, Italy showcased its role:
- €60M recently announced for healthcare, defence, governance, food security and education.
- €110M already mobilised in humanitarian aid, including through Food for Gaza.
- 215 Palestinian minors have already evacuated to Italy for medical treatment; total arrivals from Gaza now exceed 1,300, the highest figure among Western countries.
Indo-Pacific: more than a lunch with ASEAN. Over a working lunch with ASEAN partners, Tajani backed deeper EU–ASEAN cooperation ahead of the 50th anniversary of relations in 2027, focusing on:
- Geopolitical resilience
- Security
- Strategic connectivity
Sudan & the Sahel: Humanitarian pressure points. Ministers reviewed the EU response to the worsening crisis in Sudan and the Renewed Approach to the Sahel presented by EU Special Representative João Cravinho.
- Tajani outlined Italy’s commitments, including forthcoming humanitarian deliveries, and briefed counterparts on the outcomes of his recent mission to the region.
- Between the lines: Today, with a post on Truth Social, US President Donald Trump says he’ll help push for peace in Sudan after a request from Saudi Arabia’s crown prince.
- His pledge comes as the UN demands justice for victims of mass killings in el-Fasher, which it called a ‘horror show’ and a ‘crime scene’.
In Tajani’s words:
- “At the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, we reiterated the priority of Ukraine and agreed to maintain strong pressure on Russia, while continuing to support American efforts to relaunch negotiations and reach a ceasefire soon,” said Tajani.
- “On Gaza, we support the resolution adopted by the Security Council, which we now need to implement. Italy will remain on the frontline with humanitarian assistance, reconstruction and governance of the Strip, including within the Civil-Military Coordination Centre we are part of.”
- “On the Sahel, I reiterated the need to strengthen the European presence. Italy is ready to do its part: I shared the results of my recent mission to the region and highlighted our ‘Italy for Sudan’ initiative, through which we will soon deliver humanitarian aid to the country.”
