EU heads spar over trillion-euro budget amid looming French election uncertainty
EU leaders began negotiations in Brussels on the bloc’s multi-year budget, feeling pressure to finish before next year’s elections, especially in France.
The 27-member Union opened talks on its long-term financial plan, aiming for a deal by the holiday season. Officials warned that a delayed agreement could be jeopardised by possible Eurosceptic gains in upcoming votes, notably a strong showing for Marine Le Pen in France. Germany’s Friedrich Merz described the talks as “very, very difficult” and said participants remain far apart. He suggested delegates be prepared for a final summit in December.
Why it matters
The budget outcome will shape EU spending and cohesion ahead of elections that could shift the bloc’s political balance.
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