'The future of the European project is at stake': EU in crosshairs of coronavirus pandemic

"Basically the outcome of the summit is something not particularly surprising but still it’s obviously an outcome which is going to cast a shadow on a previously pretty efficient EU response," said Agata Gostyńska-Jakubowska from the Centre for European Reform.

"This initial lack of solidarity with Italy has already made for a pretty big reputation damage," said Gostyńska-Jakubowska. "Average Italians will probably remember more favourably the fact that the Chinese are now sending them equipment and will hold it against the member states for turning their back on them."

But experts say the EU needs to be even more decisive if it wants to preserve its reputation and position amongst member states.

"This could be a make or break moment for the Eurozone," said Gostyńska-Jakubowska.