BRUSSELS — Leaders of European Union member states converged in Brussels today for a high-stakes European Council summit dominated by deep divisions over the war in Ukraine, irregular migration, and the EU budget for the 2028–2034 period.

The opening of the summit highlighted internal linguistic and political divides. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz walked unhurriedly across the European Council summit's red carpet and approached the journalists. Questions were asked in both English and German, but Merz responded exclusively in German. Those asking questions in English fell silent, and as a result, only the few journalists who speak German were able to interact with him.

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker did the same, as German-speaking politicians prefer to communicate exclusively in German. In contrast, Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs communicated in English, delivering a clear message that Europe must arm itself further, remain united, and increase assistance to Ukraine.

The Russia-Ukraine war remains a central focal point, especially amid shifting geopolitical pressures following recent Trump-Putin dealings.

Asked on the red carpet about the latest friction between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten asserted that Putin alone is responsible for continuing the "senseless war" and must be forced to the negotiating table. While Zelenskyy is scheduled to arrive tomorrow, a 25-page draft of the summit conclusions suggests few tangible outcomes beyond stricter visa policies for Russians and reform-linked financial aid for Ukraine.

Behind closed doors, leaders are bracing for intense "budget battles" over the 2028–2034 EU framework. A deepening economic and energy crisis has driven up the cost of living across Europe, sparking protests among Gen Z youth who oppose rising military expenditure enacted at the expense of social spending.

Additionally, following recent events in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, right-wing EU leaders are pushing hard to curb irregular migration, deport individuals to third countries, and tighten Schengen rules. Over the two-day summit, leaders will also address EU enlargement, economic competitiveness, and the Middle East conflict.

Photo: Samson Martirosyan (Hetq)