On Monday, EU foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg would discuss the Middle East crisis and continued support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, top official Josep Borell said.

Regarding the Middle East, the main question is how the EU can help prevent a regional conflict escalation. Concerning Ukraine, the panel needs to clarify how the EU should participate in planned security commitments from the West in the coming months.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell suggested making longer-term financing commitments for military aid and using EU money to support the delivery of modern fighter jets and missiles.

Specifically, he wants to mobilise $5.3 billion annually from 2024 to the end of 2027.

Far-reaching decisions are not expected at Monday’s meeting. A number of EU member states have so far been reluctant to make new long-term financing commitments for Ukraine.

There are also differences when assessing Israel’s reaction to the attack by Hamas on October 7.

For example, Spanish leaders openly accuse Israel of violating international law with its call to evacuate people in the Gaza Strip.

They also support calls for a ceasefire.

On the other hand, leaders from countries like Germany oppose this approach and emphasise Israel’s right to self-defence.

Another topic at the ministerial meeting is the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

In addition, there will be talks with representatives of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan after the meeting. 

(dpa/NAN)