Lithuanian president going to EU summit on institution leaders, Ukrainian crisis

Italy’s Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini is listed as the most likely candidate for EU foreign policy chief.

Lithuania, the other two Baltic states and Poland are critical about the candidate due to what they say lack of experience and possibly pro-Russian stance, however, diplomats maintain the Italian minister should secure additional support. If approved, she would replace Catherine Ashton of Great Britain in the position.

To ensure balance, Eastern Europe may be offered to fill the post of European Council president. Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk is seen as the most realistic candidate, while other nominees include Latvia’s ex-PM Valdis Dombrovskis and heads of the Irish and the Danish governments.
EU leaders may also agree on the head of the group of euro area countries.

The summit will also address possible new sanctions against Russia, which Kiev and the Western world have accused of sending troops and munitions to Eastern Ukraine.