On November 4 and 5, 2026, the Slovak city of Trenčín will become the Region’s main political hub: as part of Slovakia’s presidency of the Visegrad Group (V4), a summit of the heads of state of Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary will be held there. The highlight of the meeting will be a visit by a special guest—European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who accepted an invitation from Slovak President Peter Pellegrini.
This large-scale event coincides with a special year, as the Visegrad Four celebrates the 35th anniversary of its founding, and Trenčín itself holds the title of European Capital of Culture 2026.
Key topics: Ukraine, energy, and EU enlargement
The main official talks between the leaders of the V4 countries and the President of the European Commission will take place on Thursday, November 5, at Trenčín Castle (Trenčiansky hrad).
The agenda covers the following strategic issues:
Support for Ukraine: aid to the civilian population ahead of the coming winter, the country’s post-war reconstruction, its further European integration, and the V4 countries’ participation in lending programs. Linda Kapustova Gelbikhova, Executive Director of the International Visegrad Fund, will also participate in this session.
Energy security: the availability and prices of energy resources and fuel, as well as the construction of nuclear power plants in the region.
EU Enlargement: strengthening Europe’s stability, peace, and competitiveness through the admission of new members.
The program will begin on Wednesday, November 4, with a presentation of the conclusions from the meeting of the central bank governors of the V4 countries and OECD Secretary-General Matthias Kormann. In the evening, guests will be treated to a festive concert by the Lukáš Oravec V4 Quartet at the Trenčín Synagogue, and toward the end of the summit, delegations will visit the Fiesta pedestrian bridge, built with support from EU funds.
At the same time, the participation of Polish President Karol Nawrocki remains in question—his office has indicated that the visit may be canceled due to domestic political developments in the country.
Important for guests and city residents: road closures and restrictions in Trenčín
Hosting a diplomatic event of this caliber requires heightened security measures. Local authorities and the police have warned of significant traffic restrictions for pedestrians and vehicles:
Trenčín Castle and the County House (Župný dom): will be completely closed to visitors on November 4 and 5.
November 4 (Wednesday): From 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Palackého Street (Palackého ulica) will be closed to traffic, and pedestrian access around the Trenčín Synagogue will be restricted.
November 5 (Thursday): From 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Matúšova Street (Matúšova ulica) will be completely closed, the Parish Stairs (Farské schody), and pedestrian access to the castle complex from the direction of Brezina Forest Park. Starting early in the morning, access to the main Peace Square (Mierové námestie) will also be restricted.
