Europe’s budget battle begins as leaders spar over China challenge 

Two topics dominate this week’s European Council. They have more in common than you’d think.

POLITICO
Former EU leaders call for more global ambition on MFF

Ahead of the European Council on 18–19 June, 29 former leaders, Commissioners and Ministers are highlighting the importance of a strong Global Europe budget in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (2028–2034):

POLITICO
EU forecasts €13B budget return from new gambling tax

The Commission is assessing revenue estimates that could be raised by potential new EU-wide taxes on online gambling, crypto firms and digital firms.

POLITICO
The non-geek’s guide to the Brussels budget fight

Here’s everything you need to know but were too afraid to ask about the EU’s next seven-year spending plan.

POLITICO
EU eyes higher fees on US, British tourists to repay post-Covid debts

The move would increase the incoming traveler tax above the currently slated €7 sum.

POLITICO
Merz, Scholz und das Nervenspiel nach der Wahl

— Vorbereitungen für den Tag nach dem Wahlsonntag: Wie sich die Parteien auf den 24.02. vorbereiten, wer mit wem zuerst spricht, wo politische Karrieren befördert und womöglich beendet werden. Einb…

POLITICO
The EU’s ticking debt bomb — and why it matters for its next budget

Repayment of the EU’s €300 billion joint borrowing hangs like a cloud over the European Commission’s budget brainstorm.

POLITICO
Mario Draghi’s plan to fix a broken Europe already looks impossible

The Draghi report is full of good intentions to mend a continent losing its way. But while the vision is bold, the politics are practically impossible.

POLITICO
Germany’s Lindner rejects Draghi’s common borrowing proposal

“Germany will not agree to this,” country’s finance minister tells POLITICO.

POLITICO