Outcome of the informal European Council meeting of 22 January 2026

In the context of a severe crisis in transatlantic relations linked to United States (US) President Donald Trump's designs on Greenland, the European Council President, António Costa, convened an informal dinner meeting with EU leaders on 22 January 2026. The EU's determined and united response to the US threats contributed to their de-escalation. As the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, put it, the application of four key principles – 'firmness, outreach, preparedness and unity' – ensured the effectiveness of the EU's handling of the crisis. At the meeting, discussions thus focussed on shaping a coordinated approach to transatlantic relations as regards trade, cooperation in the Arctic and negotiations towards establishing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, with EU leaders stressing the need for international law to be respected. Other topics on the agenda included the US-led Board for Peace, EU strategic autonomy and the EU-Mercosur trade agreement.