By Joe Turay
Leaders of the European Union will meet next week to discuss the bloc’s long-term budget, ongoing geopolitical crises and the growing impact of illicit drugs, officials said.
The summit of the European Council, scheduled for June 18–19, will centre on negotiations for the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034, which sets spending priorities for the 27-member bloc.
Talks are expected to be dominated by financial demands linked to continued support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion, as well as instability in the Middle East, both of which have increased pressure on EU resources.
European Council President António Costa said leaders would also address illicit drugs, warning the issue “directly impacts the lives of European citizens and our societies” and requires a “comprehensive, whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.”
The discussions come amid rising concern over organised crime networks, including the spread of synthetic drugs and cross-border trafficking within the EU.
Presidents of the European Parliament and the European Commission are expected to take part in the meeting.
The European Council sets the EU’s political direction and priorities, and its decisions are expected to shape negotiations on spending and security policy in the months ahead.
