Brussels: High Representative Kaja Kallas arrived at the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting with a busy agenda that spanned critical global issues, including the situation in Ukraine, the Black Sea strategy, and Middle Eastern security. The discussions are set to address the complexities of civilian detainees in occupied territories, with a focus on teachers and journalists, and explore methods to secure their release. According to European Union, the council is considering the launch of a new platform to facilitate the release of detained civilians in Ukraine, reflecting the ongoing humanitarian concerns in the region. Additionally, Kallas expressed hopes for the agreement on 250 new listings and ongoing efforts to finalize the 21st sanctions package against Russia, in response to recent attacks on civilians. The Black Sea strategy also features prominently, with Bulgaria and Romania collaborating to protect critical infrastructure and counter hybrid threats. A new Partnership Mission for Armenia is set to be agreed upon, aiming to combat the hybrid threats the country faces. Middle Eastern affairs are also under the spotlight, with discussions planned with Gulf partners on securing the Gulf region and addressing navigation rights in the Strait of Hormuz. The EU is offering its expertise in nuclear power negotiations as part of efforts to aid in the Memorandum of Understanding's implementation. The Foreign Affairs Council will also tackle issues in the Western Balkans, particularly regarding Bosnia and Herzegovina, and address the ongoing situation in Sudan. The council is keen on sending clear messages to both mediators and those interfering in Sudan's affairs. Discussions on the political transition in Syria emphasize the importance of inclusive governance and institutional stability. The EU is offering assistance to Syrian authorities in building inclusive institutions and drafting a comprehensive constitution to ensure stability in the region. As the FAC meeting progresses, EU member states continue to grapple with decisions on sanctions against Russia, with Kallas noting the challenge of balancing short-term economic impacts with the need to respond to aggression against Ukraine. The addition of 250 individuals to the EU's sanctions list is a significant step, though discussions on the 21st sanctions package are ongoing. In summary, the Foreign Affairs Council is addressing a spectrum of international concerns, from Ukraine to the Middle East, with a focus on diplomacy, security, and humanitarian aid. The outcomes of these discussions may shape the EU's foreign policy and its response to global conflicts in the coming months.