EU Seeks Influence on Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Effort

Welcome to the Brussels Edition, Bloomberg’s daily briefing on what matters most in the heart of the European Union.

EU leaders will get a chance today to discuss the latest US efforts to bring about a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, including the recent pledge from both nations to refrain from attacking energy infrastructure. As US President Donald Trump pushes ahead with his peace drive, there is concern in the EU that the bloc has been mostly sidelined in the negotiations. Russia has asked for sanctions relief as part of any deal on halting the fighting, but the EU wants to maintain pressure on the Kremlin and continue arming Ukraine, contrary to President Vladimir Putin’s demands. Leaders gathering in Brussels will also discuss defense spending, including yesterday’s commission proposal to allocate billions to bolstering defense capabilities.