Energy tops the agenda, as EU countries face mounting pressure to support households and businesses ahead of winter. Italy and Greece have proposed granting euro zone governments more fiscal leeway to provide targeted energy subsidies. Other members, however, say that will promote fossil fuel consumption and discourage investment in the green transition.
The European Commission proposed on Wednesday to delay by one year the application of some methane emission control obligations on imported fuel, to reduce pressure on costs and supply. Environmental groups have criticized the move, calling it a step backward for the EU climate policy.
EU members reaffirmed their support for Kyiv, following a US decision to lift sanctions on Russian diesel. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to attend the discussion on Friday.
The summit will also address trade relations with China, EU enlargement, hybrid threats, and migration.
