Defence, Joint Debt And Farmers: EU Draws Budget Battle Lines

Source: International Business Times

The EU will present its long-term budget for beyond 2027 next week but Brussels faces a delicate balancing act AFP When the European Union unveils its long-term spending proposals next week, it will kick off the bloc's biggest budget battle in recent history. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has a mammoth task on her hands: present a budget for 2028-2034 that supports farmers, helps member states ramp up their defence spending, and all while paying back the debts racked up during the covid pandemic. The European Commission, the bloc's executive arm, will outline the proposals Wednesday, setting the stage for explosive debates with capitals and EU lawmakers over the next two years.