EU Confidential

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.

Max Griera, an EU Politics Reporter at POLITICO, and Aitor Hernández-Morales, POLITICO’s Cities Correspondent, dive into Europe's intense summer heat and its climate implications. They explore the EU's ambitious 2040 climate targets amid political tensions and challenges like the crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights during Budapest Pride. Additionally, they discuss how city mayors are tackling urgent housing crises and seeking support from Brussels, revealing a critical intersection of urban policy and climate action.

Nick Vinocur, Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent at POLITICO, joins the discussion on the political turbulence shaking Europe. They delve into Donald Trump's royal reception at NATO and the challenges of EU defense spending amidst rising tensions. The threat to the Green Claims Directive ignites a political storm, raising questions about Ursula von der Leyen’s future. The complexities of trade agreements and humanitarian aid enforcement in Europe reveal conflicting national strategies, making for a captivating exploration of diplomacy and internal EU dynamics.

Michelle Haas, a defense analyst at Ghent University, discusses how European states are reacting to the proposed 5% defense spending goal amidst the Ukraine conflict. Sammy Mahdi, leader of Belgium's CD&V, vehemently opposes the goal, calling it 'crazy' and raises concerns about budget reallocations affecting social programs. Ralf Stegner, a senior German Social Democrat, advocates for prioritizing diplomacy over militarization, emphasizing the need to balance defense investments with domestic welfare. The episode dives into the political complexities around Europe's defense policies.

Izabella Kaminska, a senior editor at POLITICO specializing in finance, and Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuania’s former foreign minister, discuss Bulgaria's contentious move to adopt the euro and its potential risks. Kaminska highlights the divided opinions in Sofia about the euro's economic impact, drawing comparisons to Greece and Italy. Landsbergis emphasizes Europe’s complacency regarding Ukraine, advocating for stronger support amidst geopolitical tensions. He also hints at his future projects, including a memoir, while navigating the political landscape.

Karin Karlsbro, a Swedish Member of the European Parliament and Vice Chair of the International Trade Committee, shares insights on Europe’s approach to Trump's tariff threats and the potential for a 'beautiful trade deal.' Andrzej Bobinski, Managing Director of Politika Insight, delves into Poland's election results and what they mean for the EU, particularly the dynamics of Tusk's coalition. The conversation also touches on U.S. sanctions against Russia and the complexities of transatlantic trade amidst current geopolitical tensions.

Join Nick Vinocur, an Editor at large for Politico, Jan Cienski, Defense Editor at Politico, and Clea Caulcutt, senior correspondent in Paris, as they delve into Europe’s political tumult. They analyze the tight presidential race in Poland and the impact of far-right candidates on the youth. Tensions rise over Hungary’s ban on pride parades as Brussels confronts LGBTQ+ issues, while France faces backlash over its diplomacy with Hungary. Plus, discussions on the EU’s shifting stance on Israel and implications in Gaza create a charged atmosphere.

Rym Momtaz, a European and Middle Eastern politics expert, discusses the EU's evolving stance on its trade agreement with Israel amid a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Leo Varadkar, former Irish Taoiseach, shares insights on navigating the complexities of identity politics and the EU-U.K. relationship post-Brexit. They explore the implications of U.S. and German military aid suspensions and the pressing need for the EU to take a unified approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting Ireland's unique position in this geopolitical landscape.

Mari Eccles, a health reporter at POLITICO, dives into the landmark EU court ruling demanding transparency from Ursula von der Leyen regarding her text exchanges with Pfizer's CEO during vaccine negotiations. This ruling questions the EU's governance style and von der Leyen's leadership. Andrzej Bobiński, managing director at Polityka Insight, shares insights on the upcoming Polish presidential election, highlighting its significance in shaping Europe’s political landscape and the potential shifts in regional alliances.