While the member state holding the rotating presidency cannot dictate the EU agenda, governments can put an emphasis on certain policies. The document, marked confidential, said Ireland would use its time in the EU role to “promote a mutually beneficial and positive transatlantic relationship”. The document said work would include the development of “flagship” common EU defence projects, and efforts to better guard against “hybrid threats”. A Department of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman said the Government’s policy programme for the coming EU presidency was “currently being drafted and will not be finalised and launched until June 2026”. [ The Irish Times view on Ireland and the US: old relationship will need to be redefinedOpens in new window ]

Source: The Irish Times February 20, 2026 21:01 UTC