EU foreign ministers convened in Copenhagen on August 29-30, 2025, for critical discussions focused on intensifying pressure on Russia and reinforcing military aid to Ukraine. The informal meeting, hosted by Denmark, also included key non-EU partners such as Norway, the United Kingdom, and Iceland, signaling a unified approach to current geopolitical challenges.
A primary agenda item was the development of the 19th package of sanctions against Russia, with a specific focus on targeting the nation's "shadow fleet." These are oil tankers operating outside international regulations to circumvent existing sanctions and price caps. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas noted that measures against this fleet have already yielded positive results by reducing oil shipment revenues. The EU's strategy involves denying services, insurance, and port access to these vessels, aiming to cripple Russia's capacity to fund its war efforts. This initiative complements previous EU actions, including bans on vessels involved in suspicious ship-to-ship transfers from EU ports.
Discussions also heavily featured strategies to bolster military support for Ukraine, building on the "ReArm Europe" plan introduced in March 2025. This plan aims to mobilize over €800 billion in defense spending through various financial mechanisms, including a new €150 billion loan instrument called the Security Action for Europe (SAFE). The initiative seeks to enhance European defense capabilities and industrial bases, with a portion of the financed military equipment potentially allocated to Ukraine.
The ministers also engaged in a significant exchange regarding the utilization of frozen Russian assets. While a consensus was reached that Russia must compensate Ukraine for damages, the immediate confiscation of €210 billion in frozen Russian assets remains a complex issue, with some member states expressing concerns about legal and financial stability. However, there is a shared understanding that these assets should not be returned to Russia without full compensation for Ukraine, and their eventual use for Ukraine's defense and reconstruction is under exploration.
The meeting also addressed the situation in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid and a peaceful resolution. The participation of non-EU partners like the UK, Norway, and Iceland underscored the importance of transatlantic unity and broader international cooperation. Additionally, the presence of Belarusian opposition representatives highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the political situation in Belarus. The EU reiterated its firm commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.