EU Confidential Europe’s future, brought to you by Putin and Trump
Feb 14, 2025
Veronika Melkozerova, a POLITICO correspondent in Kyiv, shares firsthand insights on Ukraine's challenges amid shifting U.S. diplomacy led by Trump and Putin. Clea Caulcutt, a senior correspondent in Paris, discusses how these developments impact EU politics and trade tensions. Robert Biedroń, a Member of the European Parliament and LGBTQ rights activist, provides a personal look at his partnership with Krzysztof Śmiszek, highlighting the intersection of love and political activism in an evolving landscape.
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EU Caught Off Guard
- EU leaders were caught off guard by Trump's stark Ukraine announcement, despite anticipating a peace plan reveal.
- Their surprise highlights a lack of preparedness for this worst-case scenario.
EU's Stance on Ukraine
- The EU's response to Trump's Ukraine plan reiterates existing talking points, emphasizing unity and Ukraine's involvement.
- This underscores their concern about being sidelined in negotiations and the potential implications for European security.
Struggles of European Steel and Aluminum
- European steel and aluminum industries face challenges like high energy prices and cheap imports.
- Thyssenkrupp, a major German steel manufacturer, planned 6,000 layoffs even before the new tariffs.