EU Confidential

What do Donald Trump’s culture war, Moldova’s EU ambitions, and Czechia’s upcoming parliamentary election have in common? They all reveal how Europe is being tested — and sometimes humiliated. In this episode of EU Confidential, host Sarah Wheaton speaks with Paweł Zerka, senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, about his new report. It argues that Trump is waging a deliberate culture war against Europe — trying to weaken the continent, polarize its politics, and strip it of its dignity. We also bring you a dispatch from Moldova, where POLITICO’s Gabriel Gavin reports on last weekend’s election and what it means for the country’s EU path. And we also zoom in on Czechia’s election with political marketing scholar Anna Shavit in Prague, who unpacks Andrej Babiš’ comeback campaign — and his oddly revealing “shovel theory” of leadership. Further readings: Reality show: Why Europe must not cave in Trump’s culture war, by Paweł Zerka EU must unblock Moldova’s membership bid, government urges after historic vote, by Gabriel Gavin Pro-EU party secures majority in high-stakes Moldovan election, by Gabriel Gavin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this enlightening discussion, foreign affairs correspondent Nick Vinocur and POLITICO's Clea Caulcutt delve into Trump’s surprising rhetoric on Ukraine, contrasting it with European skepticism. They explore the implications of Trump's comments on NATO and defense spending, as well as the cautious responses from leaders like Macron. The conversation also moves to the geopolitical dynamics at play, including France's recognition of Palestine and how it may influence US-Israel relations. Tune in for insights on a week filled with diplomatic challenges.

Věra Jourová, former European Commission Vice-President for Values and Transparency, shares inside stories from her Brussels tenure, reflecting on political clashes and her new life in Prague as a university vice-rector. Jan Cienski delves into Russia's drone incursions, analyzing NATO's response and the geopolitical dilemmas posed by these incursions. Eva Hartog unpacks Kremlin motives and the narratives spun by Russian media, emphasizing the broader implications for European unity and security.

Rym Momtaz, editor-in-chief of Carnegie Europe's Strategic Europe blog, and Carsten Brzeski, ING’s global head of macro research, dig into Ursula von der Leyen's recent State of the Union speech. They discuss her bold proposals on sanctions against Israel and utilizing frozen Russian assets for Ukraine, raising questions about their feasibility. The conversation also touches on the political turmoil in France, exploring how Prime Minister Bayrou's collapse affects EU strategies amidst rising geopolitical tensions. Will these fighting words lead to real change?

Clea Caulcutt, a senior correspondent in France for POLITICO, and Nick Vinocur, the chief foreign affairs correspondent for POLITICO, dive into Europe’s turbulent political climate. They discuss the potential chaos in France following a critical confidence vote, where Prime Minister François Bayrou's position hangs in the balance. The duo also tackles Europe’s strategies on Ukraine and the mounting pressures on Ursula von der Leyen’s leadership, all while reflecting on the EU's response amid shifting global dynamics.

Arancha González Laya, Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs and former Spanish Foreign Minister, shares insights on Europe's geopolitical challenges. She discusses the EU's struggle to assert itself amid U.S. threats over digital regulations and evolving trade dynamics. The conversation delves into Europe's need for new partnerships and strategies in the face of nationalism and a shifting global landscape. González Laya emphasizes the importance of a unified Europe to regain leadership and navigate complex international negotiations effectively.

Just when we thought we could get a break for the summer, geopolitics had other plans. This week on EU Confidential, host Sarah Wheaton is joined by POLITICO colleagues Jordyn Dahl, Gabriel Gavin and Jan Cienski for a catch-up on what moved while the bubble was at the beach. From Alaska to the White House: Did anything real shift on Ukraine beyond choreography? We break down the EU-U.S. tariff framework and turn to Gaza — where Brussels is grasping for some sort of leverage — and how the politics split across capitals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Dionisios Sturis, an audio producer and author, and Jeroen Reijnen, a seasoned EU official and writer, as they delve into the realm of summer reading. They recommend a mix of political non-fiction and playful fiction, including 'Killing Thatcher' and 'The Vegetarian.' Jeroen shares insights on navigating the Brussels bubble, discussing the challenges faced by newcomers and the importance of forming connections. Expect laughter and personal anecdotes as they weave through their favorite literary picks and the unique experiences within EU culture.

Join financial services reporter Gregorio Sorgi, alongside trade reporters Camille Gijs and Ari Hawkins, as they delve into the maze of the EU's ambitious €2 trillion budget proposal. They discuss the fierce competition among member states for funding and the stark cuts to agricultural spending. The conversation shifts to the impending trade tensions as Donald Trump threatens hefty tariffs on EU exports, leaving Brussels in a tough spot—retaliate or capitulate? Tune in for insights into these critical issues facing the European Union.

Katarina Barley, the Socialist Vice President of the European Parliament, tackles the recent no-confidence vote against Ursula von der Leyen, revealing deep tensions within the pro-European coalition. She discusses the rising influence of far-right elements and the need for unity. Journalist Veronika Melkozerova shares her harrowing experiences from Kyiv, painting a vivid picture of life under constant Russian bombardment and the emotional toll of war. Together, they provide a gripping look at the current challenges facing Europe and Ukraine.