Europe Today

Join EU Commissioner for Energy, Dan Jørgensen, a former Danish politician, as he discusses the bold new proposal to phase out Russian gas by 2028 and the strategic shift from sanctions to outright bans. Ukraine correspondent Sasha Vakulina shares insights from ongoing diplomatic talks and urgent discussions around frozen Russian assets for Ukrainian support. The episode also touches on protests in Bulgaria and the rising tensions over the nation's budget, revealing how these issues intertwine with broader EU dynamics.

Roxana Mînzatu, the Romanian politician and EU Executive Vice-President for social rights, shares her vision for quality jobs in the EU. She discusses a new proposal that focuses on reskilling workers, particularly in the automotive sector. Shona Murray provides critical insights on NATO's cautious response to Ukraine amid geopolitical tensions. The guests also express shock over the alleged corruption scandal involving Federica Mogherini, emphasizing the need for accountability. Additionally, Macron's diplomatic efforts with China regarding the Ukraine conflict are explored.

Philippe Aghion, a French economist and co-winner of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Economics, discusses the urgent need for Europe to boost innovation. He critiques the region's over-regulation and lack of breakthrough technologies, contrasting it with the US and China. Aghion emphasizes the importance of creative destruction, advocating for a true single market and stronger investment in technologies like AI. He proposes a DARPA-style approach to industrial policy to invigorate Europe's economy and encourage risk-taking.

Discover insights from EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius on Europe's strategic shift in rearming and defense readiness. Dive into the latest peace efforts in Ukraine, including Macron's support and the territorial challenges faced. Uncover the implications of ongoing UK negotiations and how Europe needs to craft its own peace plan. Lastly, explore controversial issues like a Christmas crib debate in Belgium and recent healthcare changes affecting British pensioners in France.

Retired US Army Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, an expert on European defense, and Sasha Vakulina, Euronews Ukraine correspondent, delve into the complexities of US-Ukraine relations. Hodges critiques the US's business-centric approach, warning it could jeopardize Ukraine’s future. Vakulina discusses key sticking points in peace talks and the implications of Zelensky’s diplomatic efforts. Both emphasize Ukraine's firm stance against territorial concessions and the ongoing fight against corruption, highlighting the pressing need for cohesive support from Europe.

Catherine de Bolle, the Executive Director of Europol and former Belgian Federal Police chief, dives into the rising threats of organized crime and trafficking in Europe. She discusses critical efforts in investigating war crimes linked to the Ukraine conflict and shares insights on combating the alarming increase in cocaine imports. Katherina Mathernova, the EU Ambassador to Ukraine, provides a stark update on daily life amid the war, including the impact of energy crises and blackouts. Plus, they touch on the consumer frenzy of Black Friday and its environmental fallout.

Join Maria Tadeo, Euronews EU Editor, as she discusses Ukraine's fight for peace with former military general and MEP Riho Terras, who demands stronger EU support. Hear Stefan Grobe's shocking insights on a recent shooting in Washington that left National Guard members injured. Lastly, Giorgia Orlandi highlights Pope Leo's pivotal first trip abroad, symbolizing unity and peace in the region. The conversation wraps up with an analysis of Europe's return to military conscription, sparking debates on gender in service.

Valdis Dombrovskis, a prominent Latvian politician and European Commissioner, discusses urgent EU support for Ukraine. He advocates for a reparations loan financed by frozen Russian assets, emphasizing its benefits to EU members. Dombrovskis warns that appeasing aggressors only leads to greater threats, urging unity against Russian actions. He also addresses concerns from Belgium and rebuts internal EU divisions, highlighting the historical risks of abandonment, which could embolden Russia towards other EU countries.

Join Margrethe Vestager, a key figure in EU digital regulation and former EU Commissioner for Competition, as she delves into pressing EU-US trade issues. She discusses the recent talks on tariffs and how the Digital Markets Act is viewed by the US, emphasizing its role in consumer protection. Vestager defends the origins of these regulations and their impact on innovation. She also touches on broader concerns like mental health and democracy, all while promoting a pragmatic trade deal that aims to maintain stability.

On our first episode of Europe Today, our hosts Méabh Mc Mahon and Maria Tadeo discuss the 28-point US-Russia peace plan for Ukraine and the European response. We will also speak with the Polish Minister of Trade, Michal Baranowski, here today in Brussels for some talks between the EU and the US on a trade deal.Europe Today is Euronews’ daily podcast hosted by Maria Tadeo and Méabh Mc Mahon, broadcasting directly from Brussels, at the heart of Europe.   Every morning, we deliver the top and exclusive stories shaping the European Union (EU) and beyond.Stay ahead with the key news and insights that matter in Europe today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.