Denmark hosted a high-profile informal EU summit in Copenhagen, where leaders from 27 European nations gathered to discuss defense, Ukraine support, and future EU cooperation amid pressing global challenges. Later in the evening the Danish King Frederik also addressed the European leaders at a working dinner at the palace with a message of hope and unity.
Europe’s Leaders Gather For EU Summit in Copenhagen
Copenhagen was transformed into a political hotspot on Wednesday as the Danish capital hosted an informal meeting of the European Union’s 27 heads of state and government. The summit, which took place at Christiansborg Palace, focused on joint defense strategies and continued support for Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion.
Although no binding decisions were made, as expected at an informal meeting, the summit helped advance discussions in anticipation of the formal EU Council meeting scheduled for October 23. Enhanced cooperation on economic competitiveness and Ukraine funding were key items on the agenda.
Discussions begin with Economic Competitiveness
The day began with a meeting at the Confederation of Danish Industry, where attendees including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk discussed economic growth and innovation. They were joined by executives from leading companies, including newly-appointed Novo Nordisk CEO Mike Doustdar.
During these discussions, concerns were raised that Europe risks falling behind economically when compared to global rivals. With the U.S. leading in innovation and China pressing forward with aggressive industrial strategies, the challenge for the EU is to become more agile without overregulating industry.
Security and Defense Take Central Stage at EU Summit in Copenhagen
The core of the summit took place at Christiansborg, where leaders convened without aides, advisors, or mobile phones, a deliberate move to facilitate open and direct dialogue. The main topics were ramping up Europe’s defense capabilities and ensuring robust financial support to Ukraine.
Ursula von der Leyen proposed a novel solution: using profits generated by frozen Russian assets, estimated to be worth more than €200 billion ($215 billion), to provide loans to Ukraine. The funds would eventually be repaid only if or when Russia pays war reparations. While this proposal received attention, EU leaders did not reach a consensus during the summit.
Discussions also focused on building a so-called “drone wall” using Ukrainian technological expertise to counter increasing drone activity across European borders, a consequence of rising tensions with Russia. This anti-drone system is intended to detect and neutralize threats quickly and is poised to become a central piece of the EU’s collaborative security infrastructure.
Royal Reception at Amalienborg Palace
Following the day’s meetings, EU leaders were invited to Amalienborg Palace for a working dinner hosted by King Frederik X and Queen Mary. The event, though less formal than a state gala, was symbolic of Denmark’s historic ties with the rest of Europe. King Frederik emphasized unity, cooperation, and the need for a stronger European identity amid growing geopolitical threats.
By 7:00 p.m., European leaders were arriving at the palace under tight security. The dinner, while light on ceremony, allowed for extended conversations in an informal setting. According to Denmark’s royal court, the meal aimed to strengthen dialogue and cohesion among leaders during tough times for the continent.
Delayed Press Conference Offers Key Takeaways
Originally scheduled for late afternoon, the joint press conference with Prime Minister Frederiksen, von der Leyen, and Council President Antonio Costa was repeatedly delayed and finally took place at 9:30 p.m. Reflecting the intensity of the day’s discussions, all three leaders appeared visibly tired.
Costa confirmed that the European Commission had been cleared to proceed with planning the drone defense initiative and consider expanded defense cooperation across member states by 2030. Von der Leyen elaborated on the specifics of the proposed drone defense system, underlining Ukraine’s role as a crucial partner in its development.
Frederiksen noted the gravity of European security threats, citing increasing drone incursions and airspace violations by Russia. She emphasized that Ukraine’s defense is not only a humanitarian matter, but a strategic investment in European security.
Looking Ahead
As the EU prepares for its formal summit later this month, the EU summit in Copenhagen laid critical groundwork. Although formal agreements were not signed, the informal setting allowed for candid conversations, forging what leaders hope will become consensus in the coming weeks.
With increasing pressure to safeguard European borders, bolster defense, and secure long-term funding for Ukraine, the tone set in Denmark may help shape the EU’s response to its most severe challenges in decades. The spotlight now shifts to Brussels, where the conversations started in Copenhagen will either solidify into action or fade into diplomatic memory.
