Further sanctions against Russia will be the central demand for Poland at the upcoming EU summit, according to Radosław Fogiel, the head of the parliamentary committee for foreign affairs from PiS. He stated that Poland will press for the transfer of funds from frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine and to help curb rising energy prices. The focus is on strengthening pressure on Moscow while addressing economic challenges faced by European citizens.
An extraordinary European Council gathering is set to begin in Brussels on Thursday. EU leaders will discuss Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the state of the European economy, and the ongoing challenge of illegal immigration. The summit actions are expected to shape the bloc’s stance in the months ahead as it seeks concrete steps and united direction.
Asked on Polish radio what Poland aims to achieve at the summit, Fogiel confirmed that the priority remains intensified sanctions on Russia. He emphasized the importance of channeling funds from unfrozen or frozen assets toward reconstruction in Ukraine and measures to mitigate high energy costs for citizens and businesses. The conversation highlighted a broader strategy of using financial leverage to push for accountability and sustained support for Ukraine.
He also noted that the issue of Ukraine’s accession process could surface during discussions. The EU side is watching developments closely as Kyiv seeks a clearer path forward within the European framework and the alliance grows more integrated in its response to regional security concerns.
The summit will welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has recently visited London and Paris. Preliminary information suggests he will urge the European leaders to expedite military and security assistance for Ukraine, including long range artillery systems, armored vehicles, aircraft and essential ammunition. The aim is a stronger and more reliable deterrent against further aggression while maintaining unity among the twenty seven member states.
The Polish representative in Brussels said that the primary objective is to secure tangible outcomes in defense matters. The EU Council’s support would be a decisive signal to accelerate arms deliveries, acknowledging that individual capitals control specific decisions on weapons shipments. Even if the council does not directly decide on every delivery, a clear political stance from the summit could influence national choices and sustain momentum for Kyiv’s defense needs.
A Ukrainian official commented that while arms transfer decisions rest with member states, the summit can still deliver a strong political message that underscores European solidarity and urgency in responding to Ukraine’s security requirements. The emphasis remains on practical steps and visible support from Europe as the region navigates a complex security environment.
President Zelenskyy’s appeal
Zelensky is expected to press for a faster and more comprehensive integration of Ukraine into European structures. The aim is to accelerate the initiation of accession negotiations and to set a credible timetable for reforms that align Ukraine with European standards. Officials close to Kyiv said that such moves could come as early as this year, underscoring Kyiv’s desire for tangible progress even amid ongoing war and economic strain.
EU leaders will also discuss strengthening the bloc’s long term competitiveness, prosperity, and strategic standing. The agenda includes maximizing the potential of the internal market and considering measures to bolster European industry against global competition. The discussions are anticipated to cover ways to unlock investment, support innovation, and safeguard employment while maintaining fiscal discipline and social cohesion.
In addition the European Council will examine immigration policy focusing on securing external borders and expanding preventive actions in origin countries. The aim is a balanced approach that protects the Schengen area while offering safe and humane treatment for those in need, paired with effective and humane border management.
This week’s proceedings echo a broader European conversation about resilience, defense, and the future of the region in a rapidly changing international environment. The discussions are expected to set the tone for policy direction and political messaging in the months ahead, reflecting both the urgency of immediate security needs and the long term project of European integration.
Note: The reporting reflects ongoing coverage of the summit and the positions expressed by various officials as the EU debates strategy and coordination in these critical areas.