European Council

Council signs off simplification of sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements to boost EU competitiveness.

Joint Statement by the President of the European Council, the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Parliament on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2026/265 of 29 January implementing Decision 2011/235/CFSP concerning restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Iran.

Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/263 of 29 January 2026 amending Decision (CFSP) 2023/1532 concerning restrictive measures in view of Iran’s military support to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and to armed groups and entities in the Middle East and the Red Sea region.

Main agenda items, approximate timing, public sessions and press opportunities.

The Council imposed restrictive measures on eight additional individuals responsible for serious human rights violations and abuses in Russia and for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in the country.

On 24 February 2026, the President of the European Council, António Costa, will travel to Kyiv, Ukraine, alongside the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

The Council adopted its position enabling Austria to amend its road transport agreement with Switzerland on border cabotage by bus and coach passenger services.

The Council extended EUNAVFOR ASPIDES until February 2027 to protect freedom of navigation and maritime security in response to the Red Sea crisis.

The EU list of safe countries of origin will speed up asylum processes; the safe third country concept tightens admissibility rules.

The Council formally adopts a regulation to strengthen and future-proof the EU wine sector.

Press briefing ahead of the upcoming Competitiveness Council will take place on 24 February 2026 at 10.00.

Press briefing ahead of upcoming General Affairs Council and General Affairs Council (Cohesion) will take place on Thursday 19 February 2026 at 16.00.

Press briefing ahead of the upcoming Agriculture and Fisheries Council will take place on 20 February 2026 at 11.00.

The Council set its position on amending the market stability reserve for a smooth launch of the emissions trading system for buildings, road transport and additional sectors.

The Council today appointed Satu Koivu as new head of mission for European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA).

The Council extended the restrictive measures on Zimbabwe until February 2027 maintaining the arms embargo, while lifting travel bans and asset freezes.

The Council today approved conclusions setting guidelines for the EU’s annual budget for 2027. The guidelines provide a political steer to the Commission in preparing the draft budget proposal for next year’s budget.

The Council today activated the national escape clause for Austria under the stability and growth pact.  The measure will help Austria transition to higher defence spending at national level while ensuring debt sustainability.

Today, the Council added two countries - Turks and Caicos Islands and Viet Nam – to the EU list. At the same time, three countries - Fiji, Samoa and Trinidad and Tobago - were removed. Following this update, the list consists of 10 jurisdictions.