OMM Newsroom
European Union leaders have expressed regret over the United States’ decision to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian diesel, reaffirming their continued support for Ukraine. The statement was included in conclusions adopted by the European Council after a two-day meeting in Brussels on Oct. 15-16.
Last week, US President Donald Trump said he had reached a deal to obtain diesel from Russia to address high fuel prices.
European Council calls for safe passage in the Black Sea
The leaders called for the immediate restoration of safe passage for all civilian and commercial vessels in the Black Sea. They described attacks on shipping, including in the exclusive economic zones of Bulgaria and Romania, as “unacceptable” and a serious violation of international and maritime law.
They urged stronger measures to counter hybrid threats, protect critical infrastructure and improve preparedness. The leaders said further restrictive measures and tighter visa requirements for Russian nationals would be considered urgently.
On European security, they underlined the need to strengthen the EU’s defence capabilities while maintaining NATO’s role as the foundation of collective defence for its members.
Leaders address Middle East tensions and ICC sanctions
On the Middle East, the leaders expressed concern over escalating tensions and called for diplomatic efforts to prevent further destabilisation, stressing the importance of freedom of navigation and maritime security.
They strongly condemned threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and said any arrangements concerning the waterway must comply with international law. The leaders also condemned Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and civilian shipping in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, calling for an immediate halt to military operations.
Regarding Gaza and the occupied West Bank, they voiced grave concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis and condemned illegal settlement expansion and “continued and growing settler violence” against Palestinian civilians.
The leaders called on Israel to reverse illegal settlement plans, including proposed construction in the E1 area. They said businesses should not bid for construction contracts for E1 or other settlement developments, citing legal, economic and reputational consequences for businesses and financial institutions involved, including the risk of serious breaches of international law.
They also regretted US sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), urging Washington to reverse the measures. The European Union reaffirmed its readiness to protect the court and ensure its continued access to financial and other services.
