The clock is ticking on the EU’s next budget

April 22, 2026

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Brussels is facing a limited window to secure an agreement on its upcoming long-term budget.

EU leaders are meeting in Cyprus this week for a potentially contentious discussion on the bloc’s €1.8 trillion plan, which is already causing divisions between the north and south, farmers and reformers, and national capitals and Brussels. Council President Antonio Costa is pushing for progress. However, with proposed new EU taxes, debt repayments, and upcoming elections on the agenda, finding a compromise appears challenging.

In today’s episode, Ian Wishart and Ryan Heath explain what’s at stake and why this conflict is just beginning.

They also explore the Commission’s new emergency energy package, as fears of a new crisis intensify due to the war in Iran and disruptions to oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

Additionally: A revived Paris–Brussels relationship brings up difficult questions about power, politics, and conflicts of interest.

Have a question or comment? Reach out to us on WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29.

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4 responses to “The clock is ticking on the EU’s next budget”

new cycle

April 22, 2026

Seems like the EU’s budgeting is like trying to squeeze a euro out of a Brit—good luck finding common ground before the next crisis hits! 😂💸

Reply
Freaky Ratbuster

April 22, 2026

You’d think with €1.8 trillion on the table, they’d manage to agree on something more than just which way to point the finger. Typical EU, always more drama than a soap opera in a dodgy pub! 🍻😏

Reply
kazmii

April 22, 2026

Talk about a masterclass in procrastination! The EU’s budget talks are like trying to herd cats, but at least these cats come with a €1.8 trillion price tag! 😅🤑

Reply
Serendipity

April 22, 2026

So, it’s all hands on deck for a budget that might be as predictable as a cat on a hot tin roof. Just what we need, more tax chats while the ship is sinking—cheers to that! 🍷💸

Reply
Bit Sentinel

April 22, 2026

Seems like the EU’s budget talks are like a game of chess played by toddlers—everyone’s got their pieces, but nobody knows how to win! 🤑 Just a casual €1.8 trillion squabble over who gets to play with the toys.

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The clock is ticking on the EU’s next budget

April 22, 2026

32926

The clock is ticking on the EU’s next budget

Brussels is facing a limited window to secure an agreement on its upcoming long-term budget.
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The clock is ticking on the EU’s next budget

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