EU leaders debate Ukraine as Costa opens diplomatic channel with Kremlin

By&nbspKarolina Krol Published on 19/06/2026 - GMT+2 EU leaders wrapped up talks in Brussels after President António Costa opened a diplomatic channel with the Kremlin. Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed his call for fast-track EU membership, while Hungary's new Prime Minister Péter Magyar made his European Council debut. On today's show: Euronews' Shona Murray reports from Brussels as EU leaders conclude their summit, with talks dominated by Ukraine, European security and European Council President António Costa's call to open a diplomatic channel with the Kremlin. Sweden's Minister for European Union Affairs Jessica Rosencrantz joins Euronews' Maria Tadeo to discuss Ukraine's EU membership ambitions and Europe's response to growing economic pressure from China. Euronews' Sándor Zsíros brings the latest from Budapest as Hungary's new Prime Minister, Péter Magyar, makes his European Council debut, signalling a shift from Viktor Orbán's approach to Ukraine and the European Union. AP correspondent Philip Crowther joins us from Switzerland after the expected public signing ceremony for the US-Iran framework agreement was called off, while negotiations enter a new phase. Tomi Huhtanen, director of the Wilfried Martens Centre, analyses Europe's reaction to the US-Iran agreement, relations with China and the broader geopolitical implications for the European Union. Finally, Jakub Janas rounds up the five biggest stories from the FIFA World Cup group stage after a dramatic opening week of the tournament. When and where to watch Europe Today? You can join Euronews’ chief anchor Méabh Mc Mahon and our EU editor Maria Tadeo live on TV and Euronews' website as well as digital platforms (YouTube, Facebook, X, and Instagram) every weekday at 8 am Brussels time. In just 20 minutes, our new format brings you the day's key events plus crucial analysis of all the stories shaping the EU and beyond. It's also available as a and podcast. Go to accessibility shortcuts Besides Trump, nobody believes deal will last, former US general says Watch: Behind closed doors—Ukraine, taxes, and trade at this week's European Council Summit : Zelenskyy in town for talks with NATO and EU leaders Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy European Union António Costa