EU Summit: Leaders Clash Over Budget, Ukraine Support in Brussels

European Union leaders convened in Brussels on Thursday for a two-day summit to tackle the bloc's next long-term budget, ongoing support for Ukraine, and measures to boost economic competitiveness amid rising energy prices and geopolitical uncertainty. However, deep divisions emerged over a new proposal for the long-term budget, casting doubt on whether the spending package will be agreed upon by the end of the year. FRANCE 24's Dave Keating reports from Brussels. The summit highlighted the challenges facing the EU as it seeks to balance national interests with collective goals. The budget proposal, which includes increased funding for climate initiatives and digital transformation, faced opposition from several member states concerned about their net contributions. The debate over Ukraine support also revealed differing views on the pace and scale of assistance. As the EU grapples with multiple crises, from energy security to the war in Ukraine, the summit's outcome will shape the bloc's future. The failure to reach a consensus on the budget could delay critical investments and undermine the EU's global standing. Leaders will continue discussions on Friday, with hopes of finding a compromise.