This Week in Foreign Affairs — Brussels (#29, 2026)
Major Ukraine defence disbursement; new Union Customs Code adopted; EU-Japan partnership agreement signed; safeguard measures on electrical steel; extension of Russia sanctions.
September 14, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Major Ukraine defence disbursement; new Union Customs Code adopted; EU-Japan partnership agreement signed; safeguard measures on electrical steel; extension of Russia sanctions.
📋 In This Week's Newsletter
• 🇪🇺 European Commission
• ⚖️ EU Legislation
• 🤝 EU Council
European Commission
Commission disburses €3.3 billion in defence funding to Ukraine
On 17 September 2026, the European Commission disbursed €3.3 billion to Ukraine for defence procurement under the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan, established by Regulation (EU) 2026/467. The payment covers drones and missiles and brings total disbursements to nearly €15 billion in 2026, supporting Ukraine's defence and state functions. The defence window includes €60 billion for defence and €30 billion for budgetary aid across 2026–2027. The Commission is also preparing a new joint EU-Ukraine programme for air and missile defence, building on Ukraine's operational experience and the Freya anti-ballistic system. This follows the Commission decision on 11 September to approve €6.1 billion for air and missile defence, including PAC-3 missiles for Patriot systems. Further payments will proceed in line with the implementing decision of 23 April 2026.
Commission proposes ambitious measures to strengthen fair labour mobility
On 14 September 2026, the European Commission adopted the Fair Labour Mobility package, introducing a Regulation for a European Social Security Pass, a Regulation on digital and comparable qualifications (Skills Portability Act), a Regulation to strengthen the European Labour Authority (ELA), an amending Directive on professional qualifications, and a Directive on qualifications of third-country nationals. The package aims to provide digital, portable documents for social security and qualifications, reduce administrative barriers for businesses, and enhance enforcement against abuse. The ELA's mandate will be broadened to reinforce inspections and mediation, with a special focus on non-EU workers.
Commission issues €11 billion in 8th syndicated transaction of 2026
On 14 September 2026, the European Commission raised €11 billion in dual-tranche EU-Bonds, comprising €6 billion maturing in March 2030 and €5 billion maturing in October 2056. The order books were oversubscribed, with €72 billion for the 3-year and €80 billion for the 30-year bond. This transaction is part of the Commission's €80 billion funding plan for the second half of 2026. Proceeds support EU political priorities, including support to Ukraine and defence investment via the Security Action for Europe instrument.
Commission sends Statement of Objections in MMG-Anglo American nickel business acquisition
On 15 September 2026, the European Commission issued a Statement of Objections to MMG Limited regarding its planned acquisition of Anglo American's nickel business. The Commission raised concerns that the deal could restrict competition in low-carbon ferronickel supply, key for European stainless steel production. The in-depth investigation, launched on 4 November 2025 (Case M.11944), highlights risks of supply diversion to Chinese-affiliated firms, potentially impacting prices and resilience in the EEA. MMG now may respond and request an oral hearing before a final decision by 30 November 2026.
EU Legislation (Official Journal)
Regulation (EU) 2026/2108 establishing the Union Customs Code and the European Union Customs Authority
Regulation (EU) 2026/2108, adopted on 16 September 2026, establishes a revised Union Customs Code and creates the European Union Customs Authority, replacing Regulation (EU) No 952/2013. The new framework introduces the EU Customs Data Hub, enhances risk management, clarifies definitions, and harmonises controls and governance structures. The regulation aims to address evolving trade patterns, e-commerce, technological developments, and non-financial risks. Most provisions take effect 12 months after entry into force, with new measures on distance sales and the Customs Authority applicable from July 2028. (CELEX: 32026R2108)
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/2133 imposing a provisional safeguard measure on imports of certain grain-oriented flat-rolled products of silicon-electrical steel
On 18 September 2026, the Commission imposed provisional safeguard measures on imports of grain-oriented flat-rolled silicon-electrical steel (GOES) and steel laminations/cores, citing a 120% rise in imports from 2021 to 2025 and serious injury to EU producers. The measure, established under Regulation (EU) 2015/478 and 2015/755, will apply for 155 days from 25 September 2026, using tariff rate quotas and minimum import price duties. The action follows an investigation requested by Germany, France, and Poland amid global overcapacity and trade diversion.
Council Decision (EU) 2026/2065 on the signing and provisional application of the EU-Japan Agreement on Japan's participation in Union programmes
Council Decision (EU) 2026/2065, adopted on 14 July 2026, authorises the signing and provisional application of the Agreement between the EU and Japan on participation in Union programmes. The agreement enables Japan’s association to Horizon Europe (Pillar II), with specific financial and governance arrangements, and opens the way for future participation in other Union programmes. The agreement was initialled on 22 December 2025 and provisionally applies from notification.
Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/2103 extending restrictive measures regarding Ukraine's territorial integrity
Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/2103, adopted on 15 September 2026, extends the application of Decision 2014/145/CFSP on restrictive measures relating to actions undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty until 22 September 2026. The extension maintains asset freezes and travel bans on listed individuals and entities in response to ongoing Russian violations of international law.
EU Council
Upcoming Foreign Affairs Council (Defence) to address military support for Ukraine
The Foreign Affairs Council (Defence), scheduled for 28 September 2026, will discuss EU military support for Ukraine, hybrid threats, and the situation in the Middle East. High Representative Kaja Kallas will chair the EDA Steering Board in the margins.
General Affairs Council to debate post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework
On 22 September 2026, the General Affairs Council will hold a policy debate on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2028–2034, start preparations for the October European Council, and conduct a horizontal discussion on the rule of law in the EU and candidate countries.
