EU leaders gather to decide bloc’s future leaders, discuss Ukraine

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - The EU Council began a summit on Thursday to not only decide who will fill top posts in the bloc but also sign security agreements with Ukraine.

The two-day summit comes after European citizens cast their votes to determine the composition of the European Parliament on June 6-9, with right-wing parties winning more seats, but not gaining control.

The summit's agenda includes matters such as military assistance to Ukraine, the vision for the next five-year mandate, the situation in the Mideast, migration, defense, and security, and top positions in the bloc.

On X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said: "We will sign three security agreements, including one with the EU as a whole."

"For the first time, this agreement will enshrine the commitment of all 27 Member States to provide Ukraine with extensive support, regardless of any internal institutional changes," he said.

In doorstep remarks alongside EU Council President Charles Michel, Zelenskyy also said: "Thanks to you and of course to all the leaders of the EU for such historic outcome. We waited for this long period of time, yes. And everybody – civilians and of course our heroes on the battlefield – you know that how we want to be in the EU."

He was referring to the EU's decision to open membership talks with Ukraine.

"And of course, we have to work on next steps," he said. "You always say that we are too quick! But we need… we will discuss today with leaders about it, our next steps."

He also reiterated the urgency of more air defense for Ukraine as it fights off a Russian war, now approaching the 2 1/2-year mark.