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
When the Standard Eurobarometer came out in May, confidence in the EU was at record levels. Now it has fallen. The fact that the survey was published to coincide with the first anniversary of Ursula von der Leyen’s second mandate is said to be a coincidence.
By Markus Grabitz
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
The EU Commission has presented its legislative proposals for financing Ukraine. In them, it has complemented its preferred option of a reparations loan using frozen Russian assets with additional guarantees and a new legal basis. However, Belgium remains opposed.
By János Allenbach-Ammann and Stephan Israel
The automotive package could be delayed, although it is still expected to be on the agenda in the College on Dec. 10. According to reports, the Commission has to rework it following comments from the Regulatory Scrutiny Board.
By Markus Grabitz
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
The Commission President has presented three options on meeting Ukraine’s financial requirements. In addition to bilateral grants, these could include joint debt instruments. The Commission is accommodating Belgian interests in its preferred option of reparation loans using frozen funds from the Russian central bank.
By Stephan Israel
The German government and the CDU/CSU should make greater use of Ursula von der Leyen’s wide-ranging power to further deepen the single market. After all, the success of the single market is closely linked to Germany’s prosperity — and holds further potential.
By Linn Selle
