Czechia pushes for emissions scheme delay as EU summit exposes divisions

EU leaders ended the first day of their Brussels summit amid disagreements over energy policy, particularly emissions trading. Czechia and its Visegrád partners, supported by Italy and Greece, sought a review of ETS2 and a delay until at least 2030. Germany and other countries opposed the proposal. The outcome remains unclear, with energy conclusions still unpublished. ETS2 is currently due to launch in 2028, covering fuels for road transport and building heating. Today’s talks will focus on Ukraine and migration, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj attending in person. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO) represents Czechia.