Iran war dominates EU summit in Brussels

EU summit was initially meant to focus on Europe's competitiveness and how to prepare it The EU for the future.

But now, when energy prices are increasing significantly, attention is given to a war that takes place 5,000km away and defines the EU summit Thursday (19.03).

The effects of Iran's war are also being felt in Brussels.

In his government statement, Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for a quick end to the war.

But how? Who has access to American President Donald Trump now that he is abandoned by Europeans?

Trump called the lack of support for his fight against Iran shocking, saying it would not be forgotten.

Effects of Sensitive War in the EU

The heads of European states and governments are caught in a dilemma: on the one hand, they want this war to end as soon as possible, and on the other, they want to get involved as little as possible.

The first meeting of heads of state and government since the beginning of the Iran-Irak War raises the question: Will everyone speak in one voice and be about restraint, or will there be some places ready to participate in the opening of the Hormuz Strait?

Effects affect almost all EU countries. What can be done about high energy prices? Should oil companies be subject to a profit tax? And what is the danger that refugees from the region pose? These are all topics for discussions on the summit.

Ukraine hosts aid in billions

Ukrainian President Voldymyr Zelensky participates in the meeting through video connection and will remind heads of state and government that attacks against his country continue unbroken.

Ukraine urgently needs money for daily life and to organize defence.

The EU had pledged 90 billion euros in loans. Hungary has blocked distribution. Victor Orbán, who is known for his pro-rus stance, faces elections in the country; changing his position will not be easy.

Good News From the Economy

The European Union is in the grip of two difficult wars to find any positive news in such a climate.

But such news comes, exactly from the business sector.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyeen introduced simplified rules for startings in the EU just in time.

Each entrepreneur can create a company within 48 hours, from anywhere in the EU, and for less than 100 euros, she said in Brussels.

The data will be preserved once and transferred to all member states, writes DW.

Despite many topics in the agenda, the organiser, president of the Council Antonio Costas, in his letter of a two-page invitation expects the summit to end within a day. If that does not happen, the heads of state and government in the EU are hosting a very long night.