EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss the impact of EU enlargement on EU security and defence, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, and the situation in the Middle East

On 12 October 2026, Minister of Foreign Affairs Baiba Braže will participate in the European Union (EU) Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Luxembourg.

The impact of EU enlargement on EU security and defence. Discussions will focus on strengthening cooperation among candidate countries in the field of the common foreign and security policy.

Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and Russia’s hybrid attacks against the EU and its Member States. Ministers will discuss the EU response to the escalation of Russia’s hybrid activities against EU Member States, the instrumentalisation of sport and cultural heritage by Russia and Belarus, the latest developments in the peace process and continued support for Ukraine. Andrii Sybiha, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, will also participate in the discussion. 

The situation in the Middle East. EU foreign ministers will discuss the current situation in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, including the upcoming Palestinian Legislative Council elections on 28 November and a possible EU election observation mission. They will also discuss the current situation in Yemen, as well as in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, in light of the escalation of tensions in the region in recent months.

At the initiative of EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, an informal meeting will be held on the day of the Council meeting to discuss ways to strengthen resilience against foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) and to develop strategic communication campaigns.

The Foreign Affairs Council deals with matters relating to external action, including the common foreign and security policy, the European security and defence policy, external trade, and development cooperation. The Council’s main task is to ensure the unity, consistency, and effectiveness of the EU’s external action.