EU summit opens with energy prices in focus but decisions unlikely

European Union leaders gathered in Brussels for a two-day summit focused on high energy prices, though diplomats expect no concrete decisions will be made. The meeting addresses a heavy agenda including competitiveness, the EU budget, Ukraine, and migration. The energy price crisis is politically sensitive across member states, with leaders expected to request further measures from the European Commission. Discussions will also cover macroeconomic imbalances with China, the 2028-34 EU budget, and potential EU enlargement reforms, with Montenegro seen as closest to accession. On Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky will address leaders, with talks centered on maintaining financial support and increasing pressure on Russia. The summit will also discuss hybrid attacks, Middle East instability, and migration strategies, including Italy's proposal for repatriation hubs in third countries.