At the EU Ambassadors’ Conference, Council President António Costa took a different position on foreign policy to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. While Costa is pushing for compliance with international law, von der Leyen believes that the old world order is history.
By Stephan Israel
The EU will now take out a loan via the Multiannual Financial Framework to finance Ukraine with €90 billion over the next two years. The initially preferred option of a reparations loan failed, not least because of the high guarantees demanded by Belgium.
By Stephan Israel
A decision on a possible reparations loan for Ukraine is set to dominate the EU summit in Brussels today, with the Mercosur free trade agreement also likely to be discussed. The future of the EU as a geopolitical heavyweight is riding on both issues.
By Stephan Israel
Following António Costa’s recent critique, it is Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius’ turn to blast the new US security strategy and the hostile tones coming from Washington. The Trump administration has declared war on the EU in pursuit of its strategic interests, he writes. Members states will discuss their stance towards the US at next week’s EU summit.
By Stephan Israel
European heads of state and government are intensifying their efforts to take a more independent stance on Ukraine policy vis-à-vis the USA. The aim is to strengthen Ukraine’s position in peace negotiations and secure financial support.
By Stephan Israel
Europeans and Ukrainians have managed to get the US-Russian peace plan revised. It remains to be seen whether Donald Trump will agree. Moscow has criticized the “unconstructive” compromise.
By Stephan Israel, Sara Sievert and Viktor Funk
