Nicosia, Cyprus. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said energy and geopolitical measures linked to the Middle East crisis will dominate an informal European Council meeting in Cyprus next week. She said the conflict is already affecting the European economy through rising energy costs.
Meeting details and agenda
The meeting is scheduled for April 23 and 24, 2026, and will be hosted by President Nikos Christodoulides in Nicosia and Ayia Napa. EU heads of state and government are expected to discuss the economic fallout from the Middle East crisis.
Economic impact and ceasefire uncertainty
Von der Leyen said the Middle East has been engulfed in war for 44 days and that recent weeks have shown peace cannot be taken for granted. She said a fragile ceasefire had briefly emerged but uncertainty remains as negotiations have stalled, while noting that a ceasefire had been announced and expressing concern over developments on the ground.
Hormuz navigation and Iran-related issues
Von der Leyen said any future agreement must address Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programme and ensure the restoration of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. She said the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz is greatly damaging and that restoring freedom of navigation is of paramount importance.
Warning on Lebanon strikes
Von der Leyen warned that continued strikes on Lebanon risk undermining diplomatic progress. She said stability in the Middle East or the Gulf cannot be achieved while Lebanon is in flames.
What outcomes do you expect EU leaders to prioritise at the Cyprus meeting?
