Europeans have been guarded in their comments on “Operation Epic Fury,” the military action being taken by the US and Israel in Iran. They criticize Iran’s arbitrary counterattacks, warn against escalation, and avoid explicit criticism so as not to anger the Trump administration.
By Stephan Israel
Hungary is blocking the 20th package of sanctions against Russia, thereby also disavowing EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who wanted to make a show of determination in Kyiv on the 4th anniversary of the Russian war.
By Stephan Israel
Shortly before the anniversary of Russia’s war of aggression, Hungary is undermining relations with its European partners by threatening a double veto. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has signaled that Budapest could block both the European Union’s 20th sanctions package against Russia and a €90 billion loan for Ukraine.
By Stephan Israel
EU states disagree on whether they should go ahead with the ban on Russian oil exports without the G-7 states. The plan to adopt the 20th sanctions package by the 4th anniversary of the start of the war is in jeopardy.
By Stephan Israel
While the European Union is seeking to preserve the transatlantic relationship, it is also preparing for the possibility that the US could go it alone. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen aims to further define the bloc’s mutual defense clause and is working on a European security doctrine.
By Stephan Israel
EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas is advocating shared debt for European defense ahead of the Munich Security Conference. She also wants to present the member states with a plan on how Russia should contribute to lasting peace in Ukraine.
By Wilhelmine Stenglin and Stephan Israel
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kallas warns of China's economic pressure and emphasizes the diversification of trade and security partnerships considering the increasingly unreliable USA.
By Fabian Peltsch
The EU has classified Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization. While this increases pressure on the Iranian regime, the practical effects are limited. Regarding possible military strikes by the United States, Kaja Kallas said that the region did not need another war.
By Stephan Israel
European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas sees a structural reorientation of transatlantic relations. Europe must adapt and take more responsibility for its security.
By Stephan Israel
Denmark and Greenland are looking for support from NATO for an alliance mission in the Arctic. At the same time, EU member states are preparing possible countermeasures against further US tariffs. However, for the time being, the Commission wants to negotiate with Washington.
By Stephan Israel and János Allenbach-Ammann
