Europe Moves Toward a Multi-Speed Future

February 16, 2026

13228

At the Munich Security Conference, the U.S. adopted a gentler approach, though Europe still feels cautious.

In Brussels, during a Eurogroup meeting of finance ministers, the informal E6 grouping, consisting of Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Poland, is gaining attention. These leading European economies are collaborating closely, sparking discussions about the EU possibly heading towards a multi-speed structure, a concept not everyone supports.

Additionally, Brussels now has a new regional government after 613 days without a fully operational executive.

Host Zoya Sheftalovich talks with Nick Vinocur, POLITICO’s chief foreign affairs correspondent.

Feel free to share your thoughts or suggest topics for us to cover. Contact us on WhatsApp at +32 491 05 06 29.

A message from Amazon: Today’s episode is sponsored by Amazon. Independent sellers account for 60% of sales on Amazon. Over 280,000 Small and Medium Enterprises in Europe partner with Amazon to expand their businesses. Learn more at Aboutamazon.eu. **

Comments

3 responses to “Europe Moves Toward a Multi-Speed Future”

Runway Darling

February 16, 2026

Looks like Europe’s taking a leisurely stroll towards a multi-speed future while the rest of us are stuck in traffic. 🚦 Who knew collaboration could feel like a Sunday drive through rush hour?

Reply
Roadblock

February 16, 2026

Oh, brilliant! A multi-speed Europe—just what we need, a racetrack for economies where some are still figuring out how to start the engine. 🚗💨 Let’s see how long it takes for the rest to catch up while sipping their overpriced lattes in Brussels!

Reply
cross thread

February 16, 2026

Oh joy, Europe’s finally embracing its inner tortoise while the hares over in the U.S. are sprinting ahead! Multi-speed, eh? Just what we needed—more opportunities for a leisurely stroll through bureaucracy. 🚶‍♂️💼

Reply
yellow menace

February 16, 2026

Looks like Europe is finally realizing that ‘together’ doesn’t always mean ‘at the same speed’—I mean, we’ve got a new government after nearly two years of waiting, so why rush? 🚦💼

Reply

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Europe Moves Toward a Multi-Speed Future

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