Alessandro Ford, POLITICO's agriculture reporter known for his insights into European food politics, discusses how the Mediterranean diet has become a political battleground in Europe amidst rising gastro-nationalism. Topics include Italy’s resistance to EU dietary regulations and the cultural identity tied to traditional foods. Pieter Haeck, a tech reporter at POLITICO, highlights the challenges faced by European Commissioner Henna Virkkunen in regulating Big Tech, especially with rising online meddling and Elon Musk's influence on EU policies.

Ivo Daalder, former U.S. ambassador to NATO, shares insights on the implications of Trump's unconventional ambassador picks. Suzanne Lynch, experienced in EU politics, discusses how these nominees, lacking traditional backgrounds, alter diplomatic norms. Nick Niedzwiadek weighs in on how loyalty trumps experience in these appointments. They examine the potential risks to U.S.-EU relations and whether these changes foreshadow a shift in foreign policy dynamics. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of transatlantic ties!

Josh Lipsky, Senior Director at the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center, and Eva Maydell, a Bulgarian MEP, engage in a lively discussion on Europe's geopolitical turmoil under Trump’s leadership. They examine the shifting power dynamics between Europe and the U.S., especially in tech and trade. The duo highlights Europe's struggles for economic relevance while adapting to the new global landscape. They also touch on citizen engagement in environmental decisions and the urgent need for proactive reforms to maintain EU resilience amid rising challenges.

Nicholas Vinocur, POLITICO's editor-at-large with a sharp focus on European politics, and Koen Verhelst, a seasoned trade reporter, dive into the Europe’s political landscape amid Ursula von der Leyen's unexpected hospitalization. They explore the paralysis facing the EU as trade tensions rise and the far-right gains ground. Their discussion highlights the challenges of military spending disparities among nations and analyzes the geopolitical significance of Greenland, revealing how these dynamics could reshape EU relations with global powers.

The world’s richest man has a lot to say, a vast platform, and the ear of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Now he has turned his focus to Europe. As Elon Musk weighs in on European politics, often supporting extreme candidates and promoting conspiracies, Brussels tech regs appear no match for the algorithmic onslaught. For former MEP Marietje Schaake, now International Policy Director at Stanford University’s Cyber Policy Center, it’s just a small part of Europe’s subordination to Silicon Valley, as described in her book “The Tech Coup.” She joins Rasmus Kleis Nielsen, professor at the University of Copenhagen and co-author of “The Power of Platforms,” and host Sarah Wheaton to discuss the political trade-offs of free speech.And in case you need extra motivation to fulfill those New Year’s resolutions, we introduce you to “sweatworking.” POLITICO’s Kathryn Carlson explains the art of schmoozing and schvitzing at Brussels’ high-end gyms. Further reading:Sweatworking: How the gym became Brussels’ elite new lobbying spot, by Kathryn Carlson and Federica Di Sario‘Nobody was tricked into voting for Trump’: Why the disinformation panic is over, by Laurie Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Orr, an Associate Professor at Cambridge with strong ties to the UK's national conservative movement, and Rod Dreher, an Orthodox Christian writer linked to Viktor Orbán, dive into JD Vance's surprising rise in American politics. They explore Vance's transition from critic to supporter of Trump and how his Ohio roots influence his views. Jonathan Martin adds context on Vance's foreign policy ideas and the implications of his European connections, revealing a new breed of conservatism that blends traditional values with modern technology.

For the final episode of EU Confidential this year, we revisit a compelling discussion on the European Union’s waning influence in its eastern neighborhood, originally recorded in October. With a fresh wave of pro-EU and anti-government protests erupting in Georgia, this conversation is more relevant than ever and well worth another listen.The episode examines the EU’s struggle to maintain its foothold in Moldova and Georgia, and explores how the ongoing war in Ukraine shapes voter sentiment. We also delve into the impact of Russian interference, domestic political dynamics and Brussels’ own missteps on the future of these countries.EU Confidential host Sarah Wheaton leads the discussion with POLITICO reporters Eva Hartog, Gabriel Gavin and Veronika Melkozerova, offering insights into the challenges and high stakes at play.Later in the episode, we shift focus to the inner workings of the European Commission’s restructured leadership. In a POLITICO Pro Connect session, top policy editors Joanna Roberts, Aoife White, Cory Bennett, Jan Cienski and Douglas Busvine explore the power dynamics within the Commission — who’s wielding real influence and who’s left with merely ceremonial roles.The event was part of the POLITICO Pro Connect “In Conversation With” series, which you can learn more about here.Further reading:Moldova and Georgia ring alarm bells for the EU, by Gabriel Gavin and Eva HartogPro-EU campaign won in Moldova despite ‘unfair fight,’ president says, by Gabriel GavinThe man who bought a country, by Dato Parulava, Eva Hartog and Gabriel Gavin"Ashes of Our Fathers. Inside the Fall of Nagorno-Karabakh," Gabriel Gavin’s book, will be released in January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Politics are driving a growing culture of secrecy at the European Commission, warns European Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly in this week’s episode of EU Confidential.In an exclusive exit interview with host Sarah Wheaton, O’Reilly shares her frustrations over obtaining documents and holding European Union institutions to account. From Pfizergate to investigations into deadly migrant shipwrecks, the former journalist reflects on how her faith in the EU’s ideals has fueled her determination to ensure its institutions live up to them.Her advice to her successor? Schmooze more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aitor Hernández-Morales, a senior POLITICO reporter, shares insights on the influential POLITICO 28 list, revealing how a vacuum in traditional power is giving rise to new political players. Kaya Kallas, the EU's foreign affairs chief, discusses her take on Ukraine’s ongoing conflict and broader geopolitical dynamics. Carmen Paun provides a critical look at Romania’s canceled presidential election, addressing the controversy over social media's influence and allegations of interference. An engaging mix of politics and social insight takes center stage.

Barbara Moens, the chief EU correspondent at POLITICO, Aitor Hernández-Morales, an Iberian politics expert, and Nick Vinocur, co-author of The Brussels Playbook, dissect the newly formed leadership trio in Brussels. They evaluate whether this team can effectively tackle challenges, especially support for Ukraine amidst changing political tides. The conversation also touches on the ongoing political crisis in France, the evolving EU dynamics, and the implications of leadership styles in navigating geopolitical issues. Expect insights full of sharp analysis!