Brussels Playbook Podcast

Germany has rejected Ireland's proposal for the EU's next seven-year budget, despite €159 billion in cuts. And it's not alone: Governments are divided over where the cuts should fall, while the European Parliament is threatening to block the deal. Zoya Sheftalovich and Nick Vinocur unpack the backlash and what it means for this week's EU leaders' summit. Plus, Zoya interviews Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner about Europe's efforts to curb irregular migration and plans to tighten restrictions on Russian visitors and former soldiers. And why the influencers expected at this week's EU summit won't be showing up after all. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Five years after the height of the Covid pandemic, how much better prepared is the EU for the next health crisis? Host Sarah Wheaton is joined by POLITICO health reporter Helen Collis and global health expert Michel Kazatchkine to discuss the mysterious death of a worker at a Russian anti-plague institute, and what it tells us about international health cooperation and transparency. They look at what became of Brussels’ post-Covid ambitions — from the EU’s HERA health-emergency authority to better coordination of research — and at Donald Trump’s push to bring down US drug prices by putting pressure on Europe to pay more. Plus: As Brussels tries to compete with the U.S. and China on biotech and new medicines, is it focusing on the innovation patients actually need? Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič is kicking off his visit to China today — and the stakes are high. On today’s show, Zoya Sheftalovich and Sarah Wheaton discuss the most important topic on the agenda: Europe’s trade deficit with China. France and Germany are finally on the same page and want Brussels to get tougher on unfair trade. So can we expect results from the meeting? Next, EU development ministers are meeting in Dublin to discuss the future of Europe’s development policy. But the timing is unfortunate, as governments prepare another round of cuts to the next long-term budget. Finally, a mysterious death at a Russian anti-plague lab has an unexpected connection to Zoya’s own family. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Articles mentioned in this episode: “EU toughens China stance ahead of Šefčovič’s Beijing visit” “EU-China trade talks zero in on cars.” “WHO seeks clarity on second pneumonia case in Russia amid plague fears.” This episode was produced by Dionis…

Russia’s hybrid attacks across Europe — cyberattacks, sabotage, drone incursions — have been ramping up in recent months. But European governments are quietly preparing for something much worse. On today’s show, Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart discuss how EU ambassadors have been meeting in recent weeks to discuss what to do if a potential Russian hybrid attack were to result in mass casualties. Next, Britain’s minister in charge of relations with Europe, Hamish Falconer, is making his first official visit to the European Parliament. Zoya was able to catch him on the phone to ask him more about EU-U.K. relations under PM Andy Burnham and a potential deal on farming, among other things, currently in the works. Finally, what may sound like the plot of a spy novel is in fact real news coming out of Berlin where Germany’s former spy chief has been arrested on suspicion of espionage. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Articles mentioned in this episode: “EU quietly…

Spain’s snap election is poised to upend not just domestic politics ... but EU politics, too. On today’s show, Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart break down all the far-reaching impact the tumult in Madrid could have for the bloc — from effects on the EU long-term budget to the potential puncturing of Ursula von der Leyen’s fragile majority in Parliament. Next, Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar is reviewing a huge nuclear deal agreed between ex-leader Viktor Orban and Russian president Vladimir Putin. Our reporting has found that there could be some serious problems behind the scenes of the project. Finally, more than 3,000 temporary contract agents have taken an exam in the hopes of becoming permanent officials. But the early results are pretty dismal. If you like this show, why not check out our new sister podcast, Decoded by POLITICO? The podcast brings you daily updates on how rapid developments in AI are shifting global policy. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Questions? Comments? Let us know…

The race for some of the EU’s most coveted diplomatic jobs is under way. Zoya Sheftalovich and Nick Vinocur unpack why this year’s routine EEAS rotation is attracting unusually strong interest from senior Commission officials — and what it says about the mood in Brussels. Then, we head to France, where a wave of student protests is spilling into the presidential campaign, sharpening the contrast between Jean-Luc Mélenchon and Marine Le Pen and adding to what one government adviser called a “maxi merde” moment for French politics. Plus, Brussels’ revamped Schuman roundabout is becoming a new protest hotspot — close enough for the noise to reach the upper floors of the Berlaymont. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Europe’s gray-zone war with Russia is getting harder to ignore. Sarah Wheaton speaks to security expert and author Elisabeth Braw about how Europe should respond as sabotage, arson, cyberattacks and attacks on critical infrastructure become more frequent and more dangerous, who pays when businesses are targeted, and what happens when one of them turns deadly. They also discuss Braw’s new book, The Undersea War: The International Battle for Supremacy at the Bottom of the World, and the increasingly contested cables, pipelines and infrastructure hidden beneath the seabed — another target in this growing gray-zone conflict. You can read Elisabeth’s most recent column for POLITICO about how European businesses are paying the cost for Russias hybrid war here. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ukraine’s prime minister is warning of a $20 billion defense funding gap as Russia intensifies its attacks and Kyiv struggles to protect its skies and keep the country running. Zoya Sheftalovich and Sarah Wheaton look at just how much pressure Ukraine is under — from its military finances to farmers struggling to get their grain out. They also unpack the Commission and EU governments’ two-day brainstorming session on how a huge chunk of the next EU budget should work — and who may end up controling it. Plus, the Commission’s attempt to build a sovereign alternative to Microsoft Teams is not exactly winning rave reviews. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ursula von der Leyen is heading on her annual tour of the Western Balkans to visit some of the countries in line to join the EU. But Bosnia & Herzegovina and Serbia, two accession hopefuls, are not on the itinerary. On the show, Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart discuss why EU membership talks are speeding ahead with certain Balkan countries, and stalling with others. Next, investigative outlet Mediapart has uncovered antisemitic remarks allegedly made by French far-right politician Jordan Bardella in a private chat back in 2013. But is this news enough to make a dent in Marine Le Pen’s presidential campaign? And finally, we take you inside Brussels’ surprisingly political sauna circuit. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another surge in energy prices risks making life even more expensive for Europeans — especially once winter rolls around. So when EU energy ministers meet in Dublin today, affordability will be at the top of their agenda. On the show, Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart discuss just how bad the price spike is and how the cost of gas could play out at ballot boxes across Europe. Next, what does it take to ensure people who want to live in the countryside can stay in the countryside? We discuss the Commission’s “Right to Stay” initiative, which aims to help people stay in rural areas rather than leaving to the big cities for better jobs, schools and services. And finally, the Commission is considering big changes to EPSO: that’s the body that runs competitions for permanent EU jobs. The system is slow, costly and was described by one insider as “completely unmanageable.” Have you applied for an EU job via EPSO? What was your experience like? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode…

As ultra-fast fashion has gotten cheaper, textiles have become disposable to many Europeans. The average EU consumer purchased 95 articles of textiles last year — an increase of 12 percent since 2019. Europe now discards about 9 million tons of polyester textiles annually. That’s the weight of roughly 900 Eiffel Towers. Those unwanted clothes could be put to better use. Technology has advanced to the point where textile-to-textile recycling is in reach, but it requires coordination across the EU. With Extended Producer Responsibility rules coming into effect and the Circular Economy Act on the horizon, Europe has a unique chance to turn its textile waste problem into a strategic advantage. In this special podcast episode produced by POLITICO Studio, experts on policy, textile recycling and fashion manufacturing explore whether the EU can rise to the challenge. Guest speakers include: Patrik Frisk, CEO of Reju, a textile-to-textile regeneration company focused on polyester; Ekaterina Stoyanova, senior policy…

Europe’s defense ministers are meeting today to discuss whether the EU needs its own version of NATO’s article 4. This so-called Emergency Security Protocol would allow capitals to bring together all EU countries in the event of a security crisis. But the idea is controversial. On the show, hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Nick Vinocur discuss whether there is appetite among capitals to set up the protocol, or whether the move will be seen as encroaching on NATO’s turf. Next, the European Parliament’s biggest political family — the EPP — is devising a plan to take on the far right in 2029. But there’s a problem. It seems even within the conservative political family, there’s a deep disagreement over how to cooperate with populists. Finally, the death of a pop star has Greece’s wellness industry asking itself some tough questions. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

European lawmakers this week called for the EU’s artificial intelligence regulations to hold American tech companies liable for the risks their most advanced models pose to humanity. But how much sway does Europe have in an arms race dominated by the U.S. and China? Host Anne McElvoy has been in Berlin attending WELT’s AI Summit, which brings together the AI and tech business leaders from across Europe with other interested parties. They include Cardinal Michael Czerny, who Pope Leo recently appointed to chair the Vatican’s Commission on AI. He tells Anne that European politicians need to heed warnings over the development of frontier AI models and enter a dialogue with the Catholic Church. She also explores the wider questions of AI regulation with Axel Voss, who sits on the European Parliament’s Committee on Legal Affairs, and Pieter Haeck, senior technology reporter at POLITICO. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…

Europe breathed a sigh of relief after finally agreeing on a new Russia sanctions list. But attention is turning to the compromise that got it over the line: dropping two Russian billionaires. On the show, hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Sarah Wheaton discuss reactions from around the EU to the deal, plus revelations about why France might have wanted billionaire Alisher Usmanov removed from the list in the first place. Next, the U.K. is planning to release prisoners in an attempt to relieve some of the pressure on its overcrowded jails — but the plan has EU countries nervous. Zoya and Sarah explain why. Finally, to celebrate the European Week of Sport, we scour the continent to find its most active countries. Which activity is popular in your country? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. If you’re interested in watching our stellar lineup at Playbook Paris Live, you can check it out online here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode was recorded in front of an audience at our Brussels Playbook Live event. On the show, hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart spotlight Cristina Lobillo Borrero, Ursula von der Leyen’s new senior adviser for the Clean Transition. They discuss what her appointment says about the Commission president’s approach to energy — and her relationship with Commissioner Teresa Ribera. Next, Norway is concerned that it is lobbying the EU too late to have a real effect on policy. And that’s a problem because, while Oslo isn’t an EU member, it still ends up adopting a large number of EU laws. And finally, Zoya and Ian deliver the big news we’ve been teasing all week: our new Brussels Playbook Capitals newsletter. It’s the afternoon edition of the Playbook newsletter, drawing on our coverage from across the continent. To understand more, Zoya speaks to two of the newsletter’s authors, Marion Sollety in Paris and James Angelos in Berlin. You can subscribe to the newsletter here. Questions? Comments? Let us…

The U.N. General Assembly is in full swing over in New York, and the agenda is packed. But perhaps the most pressing item will take place on the sidelines of the gathering, as Denmark, the U.S. and Greenland prepare to sign a security deal. What does the agreement mean for the EU’s big Arctic strategy? And will it be enough to ease months of tension between Donald Trump and the Danish territory? Hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart discuss. Then, we’re heading back to Germany where the fallout from Sunday’s state elections is only getting worse for Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Questions are once again being raised about how long he can hang on. And finally, we have some bad news for Belgium-dwellers who love online shopping. Today we’re recording a special episode in front of an audience at our Brussels Playbook Live event. You can register to watch the entire event online here. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…

Two state elections pile more pressure on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz — raising fresh questions about his leadership and what a weaker Germany could mean for the rest of Europe. Zoya Sheftalovich and Nick Vinocur also look at the growing fear over Russian hybrid attacks, as EU foreign ministers meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York to discuss how Europe should respond if one of those attacks turns deadly. And back in Brussels, some EU officials are being pushed beyond the Schuman bubble as the fight over savings in the next seven-year budget gets very real. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The old global order is breaking down. Ursula von der Leyen thinks Europe may have to start building something new around it. In her State of the European Union speech, she floated closer ties with Canada — even “associate membership” — and a new European Security Council, as Europe looks for new ways to work with like-minded powers in an increasingly chaotic world. But both ideas immediately raised questions about whether von der Leyen was getting ahead of her own allies. Host Sarah Wheaton is joined by POLITICO Executive Editor Carrie Budoff Brown, senior EU climate reporter Zia Weise and AI and technology reporter Pieter Haeck to unpack what von der Leyen’s speech tells us about Europe’s search for a role in this new global “unorder.” They also look at her climate message — heavy on adaptation to heat, drought and fires, but lighter on new answers to Europe’s energy problems — and at her attempt to square AI regulation with the need to keep Europe in the global tech race. Questions? Comments? Let us know…

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney takes the stage in Strasbourg after Commission President Ursula von der Leyen surprised EU capitals by floating “associate membership” for Canada — a status that doesn’t actually exist, and that Ottawa itself seems reluctant to define. Zoya Sheftalovich and Sarah Wheaton ask whether von der Leyen got ahead of both member countries and the Canadians, and what Carney’s speech could tell us about how close the two sides really want to get. Then, Germany’s Friedrich Merz faces a potentially decisive weekend as pressure grows on his leadership. And finally, why is the EU still allowing plastic waste exports to Turkey despite its own assessment warning of serious environmental problems? Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Our audience survey is still live — we’d love to hear what you think about the pod. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode from Strasbourg, Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart give their first take on the State of the European Union speech delivered by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. They look at the push for a more independent Europe — from competitiveness to AI, climate, defense and Ukraine — as well as the ideas that could shape what comes next, including a European Security Council and a deeper partnership with Canada. Our audience survey is still live — we’d love to hear what you think about the pod. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is giving her State of the European Union address this morning ... her biggest set-piece speech of the year. Host Zoya Sheftalovich is at the European Parliament in Strasbourg with her ears to the ground, trying to figure out which hot-button issues we can expect to hear about. Two of the biggest topics we’re almost sure she is going to talk about are plans to limit social media access for children and the challenges posed by the artificial intelligence industry. These issues, alongside migration, climate and defense are all likely to feature in the top-secret speech — oh, and the Commission president’s surprise guests, of course. We’ll be back later today after the speech is over to give you a snap analysis of everything that Ursula von der Leyen talked about. Our audience survey is still live — we’d love to hear what you think about the pod. Questions? Comments? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…

Why is it easier for a jar of peanut butter to cross EU borders than it is for a European worker? According to the Commission, varying social security systems and professional qualifications make it hard for Europeans to work outside their home country in the bloc. The EU executive’s Fair Labour Mobility Package — unveiled today — aims to fix that. On today’s show, Zoya Sheftalovich and Nick Vinocur dissect the initiative. Next, NATO allies are debating a tougher response as Russian sabotage and hybrid attacks creep closer to home. And eight years after former Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker promised to stop Europe changing the clocks twice a year — why are we still doing it? Our audience survey is still live, and we’d love to hear what you think about the pod. Do you have something you want Ursula von der Leyen to mention in her State of the European Union speech? Let us know on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about…

When Commission President Ursula von der Leyen gives her big State of the European Union speech on Wednesday, the topic of migration is likely to feature heavily. On today’s show, Zoya Sheftalovich and Nick Vinocur discuss the EU executive’s proposed new tool to counter “weaponized” migration — like we saw in Ceuta this summer. Plus, what do the results of the Swedish general election mean for the country’s migration policy? Next, a group of European leaders and senior EU officials are in Finland today, part of Brussels’ broader push to deepen its engagement in the Arctic as the region assumes greater geopolitical importance. Expect the Arctic to stay high on the EU agenda throughout the autumn. Finally: Zoya has been on a tap water crusade in Brussels ... and now, the results are in! Our audience survey is still live and we’d love to hear what you think about the pod. The survey takes five minutes max and closes Sept. 18 — you can access it here. Otherwise you can contact us as always via WhatsApp here or…

When Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered her State of the European Union speech last year, the backdrop was chaotic. Russian drones had just crossed into Polish airspace, Donald Trump was casting doubt on America’s commitment to NATO, and the Commission president herself was facing votes of no confidence. Her answer to this disarray? Europe, she said, was in a fight — and this was its “independence moment.” A year later, can we say that Europe met that moment? And is it winning the fight or losing it? To take stock of what the EU has achieved — and where it has fallen short — host Sarah Wheaton is joined by Senior EU policy editor Joanna Roberts, deputy tech editor Laurens Cerulus and Nick Vinocur, our chief foreign affairs correspondent. Plus, we want to hear from you! We have a survey out and would love to know what you like about the podcast and what we could do differently. The survey will take max five minutes — you can access it here. Otherwise, you can contact us as always via WhatsApp…

The U.S. is on a public campaign to dismantle the International Criminal Court. Now, it wants help from its NATO allies. During a closed-door meeting back in July, U.S. envoy to NATO Matthew Whitaker asked allied countries for help in disassembling the international court that addresses genocide and crimes against humanity. On the show, Sarah Wheaton and Kathryn Carlson discuss the European reaction and the motivations behind this American push. Next, Europe’s housing crisis is deepening. Sarah Wheaton spoke with the Commissioner tasked with tackling the problem, Dan Jørgensen. And criminal gangs in Europe are using AI to figure out where they can build their illegal tobacco factories to not get caught. Finally: We want to hear from you! We have a survey out and would love to know what you like about the podcast and what we could do differently. The survey will take max five minutes — you can access it here. Otherwise, you can contact us as always via WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Plus: We’re going…

Relations between the EU and Israel have been deeply strained over the war in Gaza. But the bloc is struggling to withstand the allure of Israel’s tech and missile defense prowess. On today’s show, Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart discuss how EU capitals are looking again to Israel for cooperation on things like air defense, space and artificial intelligence. Our hosts explain why this is an awkward look for the bloc. Then, two years after Mario Draghi’s competitiveness report, we break down how much of his plan Europe has actually delivered. And finally: France’s brutal summer is hitting wine harvest ... is there another drink you’ll opt for instead? Let us know via WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Plus: We’re going live again on Sept. 22. We’ll be recording the podcast in front of an audience as part of POLITICO’s Brussels Playbook Live event. You can register to attend here. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, wanted a group of heavyweight former leaders to come up with fresh ideas to address Europe’s defense gaps. Instead, the initiative was killed before it even launched. Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart look at why some capitals pushed back — and what the episode says about Kallas’ authority and the battle over who drives European defense policy. Then, European Council President Antonio Costa continues his tour of European capitals as negotiations over the EU’s next long-term budget get more concrete. And finally: could Ukraine and Poland make a joint bid to host the football World Cup? Plus: We’re going live again on September 22. We’ll be recording the podcast in front of an audience as part of POLITICO’s Brussels Playbook Live event. You can register to attend here. Question? Comment? Get in touch on WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a sweeping victory in the regional elections in Saxony-Anhalt, Ulrich Siegmund's Alternative for Germany (AfD) could be in a position to govern the state — putting a far-right party in power in part of Germany for the first time since World War II. As Europe wakes up to the AfD win, Zoya Sheftalovich and Nick Vinocur talk to Head of Playbook Germany Hans von der Burchard about what it means for the rest of the country. Then, Zoya and Nick discuss what it means for Europe and beyond. What do you think this result means for your country? Get in touch on WhatsApp here, or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Spanish exclave of Ceuta on the North African coast is struggling to deal with a surge of unauthorized migrants. Over 70,000 arrived in a mass crossing from Morocco at the end of July, and although the numbers have fallen since then, police and the authorities are struggling with outbreaks of violence and criminality. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has faced protests in cities across the country, and the crisis poses a challenge for the European Union’s borders. Host Anne McElvoy talks to Tim Röhn, Senior Editor of the Axel Springer Global Reporters Network, who has reported extensively from Ceuta for POLITICO. Also on the podcast, could the far-right be on the verge of an electoral breakthrough in Germany? This weekend’s election in the Eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt could result in the Alternative for Germany forming a government, the first time a far-right party has tasted power since the Second World War. Anne has been on the road in the state, writing about how two chancellors, Merz and…

At the informal General Affairs Council in Dublin today, the EU’s next 7-year budget is set to dominate the agenda. The talks are still in deadlock over the size of the money pot ... but the red lines of various capitals are starting to take shape. On today’s episode, host Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart explain why — counterintuitively — that’s actually a step forward for the negotiations. Next, the pivotal regional election in Germany’s Saxony-Anhalt is just days away ... and the far-right AfD party is poised to win big. But just how big? And what would the party do if it manages to come to power? Finally, the EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, is considering a council of elders to help with the reform of the bloc’s foreign policy arm, the EEAS. Who do you think should be part of an expert group like this? Get in touch on WhatsApp here, or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The political center in the European Parliament is looking increasingly fragile. Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart look at a proposal from two senior German MEPs for the center-right EPP and the Social Democrats to strike a much more formal deal — as relations between the two groups deteriorate and the far right gains influence. Then: Europe says it needs giant data centers if it wants to compete in the AI boom. But who pays for them — and what happens when one arrives in your town? We look at the millions of euros governments are being asked to commit to Europe’s AI ambitions, and at the resistance to a massive Google data center in Austria. Plus, should the European Commission just be on TikTok if it wants to reach younger voters — or is trying to look young and hip more trouble than it’s worth? Question? Comment? Get in touch on WhatsApp here, or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brussels is getting increasingly worried about its economic relationship with Beijing ... but the bloc doesn’t want to bring out the big guns just yet. While the EU already has the infamous 'trade bazooka' at its disposal, the Commission is considering a new tool to address Chinese overcapacity and dangerous dependencies. Our colleague Camille Gijs has spoken with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič to learn more. Hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart discuss what he said in the interview. Next, EU defense ministers are meeting in Ireland today, and Ukraine is right at the top of the agenda. The big question will be whether the bloc can help ease Kyiv’s shortage of missile interceptors. And finally, is Europe’s most prominent right-wing think tank, MCC Brussels, imploding ... or is it morphing into something new? Question? Comment? Get in touch on WhatsApp here, or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Dionis Sturis and Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…

Iceland has voted no to restarting membership talks with the EU in a referendum held over the weekend. While the yes camp had hoped rising global geopolitical tensions might sway voters, the fear of losing control over Icelandic fishing quotas proved decisive. So what does this result mean for the EU’s enlargement ambitions? Nick and Zoya discuss. Next, defense and foreign ministers prepare to meet in Ireland this week to talk Russia sanctions, support for Ukraine ... and overhauling the EU’s diplomatic arm. And finally, move aside Italy, Greek coffee is making it big in Brussels. Do you have any favorite coffee shops in Brussels that we failed to mention on the show? Get in touch on WhatsApp here, or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For 16 years, Viktor Orbán exerted an iron grip on Hungarian politics and society. Now it’s being dismantled. Has Hungary finally turned a page on the Orbán era, or could he make one final return? It’s only a few days before Péter Magyar’s government, which succeeded Orbán, learns whether his anti-corruption reforms have done enough to persuade the European Commission to release €10.4 billion of frozen funds to help the country recover after the Covid pandemic. The money was withheld over breaches of EU law under Orbán, who suffered a landslide defeat at the polls in April. Host Anne McElvoy talks to János Bóka, who now leads Orbán’s Fidesz party from the opposition benches in the Hungarian Parliament. He was minister for European affairs in the previous government and is seen as a relatively moderate voice tasked with rebuilding a party reeling from defeat. Does he want to cast off an ousted strongman’s shadow – might Orban still be seeking to find a way back? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…

Canada is taking a much harder line against Donald Trump — and Brussels is watching closely. As the U.S.-Canada trade war escalates, Zoya Sheftalovich and Kathryn Carlson look at Mark Carney’s gamble, his call for the world’s “middle powers” to band together, and whether Europe is ready to follow his lead or would rather keep Washington onside. Then, France’s 2027 presidential race gets its first major televised debate. The political center goes into it weaker and more divided than ever, while Jean-Luc Mélenchon has managed to put his radical plan for dealing with France’s €3.5 trillion debt right at the heart of the campaign. And finally, could Brussels make the beautiful booze bottle an endangered species? Europe’s glassmakers fear new anti-waste rules could squeeze out some of the elaborate designs that help make spirits, wine and perfume instantly recognizable — although the reality is rather more nuanced. What’s a bottle or piece of packaging you love for its design — from spirits to perfume — and would…

France and Germany are clashing over how far the EU should go to protect European industry — with Paris pushing stronger “Made in Europe” rules and Berlin warning against provoking new trade fights. Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart look at what that battle says about Europe’s struggle to go green, stay competitive and keep its markets open at the same time. Then, Brussels is rattled by another wave of shootings. We look at the drug trade behind much of the violence, the Antwerp connection, and the political fight over whether the capital has enough police resources — or whether Belgium’s fragmented system is part of the problem. And on a much lighter note: Eurostar may finally get some serious competition. New operators are lining up to run through the Channel Tunnel, raising the prospect of more trains — and maybe cheaper tickets — between Brussels and London. Have you witnessed any of the recent shootings in Brussels? Or has the rise in gun violence changed how you feel about the city? We’d like to hear…

António Costa is kicking off a tour of EU capitals to find out what leaders want from the bloc’s next seven-year budget — and what they might accept in return for a deal. His first stop is Bratislava, with Slovakia among the countries pushing to protect cohesion and agricultural funding. Later this week, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will gather like-minded northern countries in Berlin to argue for a much leaner budget and major cuts to the Commission’s nearly €2 trillion proposal. Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart look at the competing campaigns as negotiations head into a crucial period. Next, an argument inside Europe’s socialist family over Denmark’s Mette Frederiksen and her cooperation with Giorgia Meloni on migration has raised questions about whether the tensions could spill into the Socialists & Democrats group in the European Parliament. Plus: Greece is trying to turn the buzz around Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey into tourist money. With parts of the film shot in the Peloponnese, regional…

We’re back! And so are Ukraine’s key backers. On the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence from the Soviet Union, leaders meet in Kyiv this Monday to discuss new pledges of support for the country. On the podcast, Zoya Sheftalovich and Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent Nick Vinocur discuss what support Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is looking to secure from the Coalition of the Willing ahead of another difficult winter. Next we look at elections in the state of Saxony-Anhalt in Germany, where the far-right Alternative for Germany is on course for a sweeping victory. If it wins an outright majority, its lead candidate, Ulrich Siegmund, could become the first AfD state premier. Plus: e-scooters get a reprieve until the end of the year in Brussels, much to Nick’s delight. The Brussels government announced it had found a way around a legal ruling that threatened to remove the scooters from the streets on Sept. 1. Questions? Comments? Get in touch! You can message us or send a voice message to our…

The Brussels Playbook Week Ender podcast is still away on holiday — but don’t worry, we will be back next week. In the meantime, here’s an episode from earlier this year about Europe’s attempts to protect its industry from Chinese products flooding the continent. In this conversation, which was first released in May, host Sarah Wheaton is joined by Sander Tordoir from the Centre for European Reform, Grzegorz Stec from the Mercator Institute for China Studies and POLITICO’s Jordyn Dahl to discuss the European Commission’s attempts to forge a common stance on China. The Brussels Playbook Podcast will be back to its regular schedule on Aug. 24. Questions? Comments? Send us a message to our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week and next, the Brussels Playbook Week Ender podcast is away for the summer holiday. So, we thought we’d re-up this popular installment on Europe’s quest to become independent from U.S. tech. In this episode first released in June, Sarah Wheaton is joined by "The Tech Coup" author and former Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake and POLITICO’s Laurens Cerulus, as they look at what happens when the systems running Europe’s schools, ministries, banks, businesses and security are controlled elsewhere. They also discuss whether Brussels can build real alternatives or simply learn to manage its dependence better. The Brussels Playbook Podcast will be back to its regular schedule on Aug. 24. Questions? Comments? Send us a message to our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s August in Brussels, which means it’s vacation time. Whether you’re heading off to the beach or holding down the fort in town, this episode is brimming with book recommendations from our newsroom and from you, our listeners. Whatever your genre preference, from true crime thrillers to deep political dives, we've got your summer holiday covered. But this installment is not just a book chat. We're also tackling the rise of populism and the crises facing liberal democracies around the world. That’s the topic of “Defeating Trumpism,” a new book by former Belgian Prime Minister and European Parliament Member Guy Verhofstadt. The book is a self-diagnosis from one of Europe’s most passionate centrists about the failures of his movement. And his prescription? A new political paradigm he calls “Citizenism.” We’re on a break for two weeks, so expect us to pop back up on your feed with the daily Brussels Playbook Podcast on Aug. 24 and the Week Ender podcast on Aug. 28. Questions? Comments? Get in touch! You can…

Working at the European Commission is one of the most coveted civil service jobs in Brussels. Yet, officials employed there describe high pressure, bureaucracy and burnout. Our colleague Seb Starcevic has interviewed dozen officials from different commissioners’ cabinets and directorates-general, varying in age, nationality and seniority. On the podcast, Zoya Sheftalovich and Sarah Wheaton parse through what these insiders had to say about their working conditions. Next, last week’s Ceuta crisis — when a surge of migrants crossed from Morocco into the Spanish exclave — has revived a basic question: Why does Spain still hold territory in North Africa? With Madrid increasingly isolated from both U.S. and European allies, doubts are also growing over who would support Spain if Morocco moved against Ceuta or its other North African city, Melilla. Plus: Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharma company of Ozempic fame, is launching a pill version of its weight-loss drug Wegovy in Europe ... and transatlantic tensions are…

Europe wants to kick its U.S. tech habit, but it’s struggling to detangle itself from American data analytics firm Palantir. The problem is, the company's tools are already deeply embedded in critical sectors across the bloc like policing, national defense and health systems. A report released today also shows that the tech firm has found ways to pay minimal taxes in Europe. On the show, hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart discuss European alternatives and why detaching is easier said than done. Next, our colleague Seb Starcevic has interviewed Mediterranean Commissioner Dubravka Šuica. The role that was originally thought to be low profile has instead thrust the Croatian official into the limelight as various crises hit the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Plus: Three new foods are being added to the EU’s list of products with geographic indicators. These are the labels given to products that can only be made in a specific region, like Champagne or ... yes, you guessed it, halloumi. Questions?…

Home affairs ministers are meeting this morning as the fallout of the Ceuta crisis continues to roil Europe. Last week’s sudden influx of migrants into the Spanish exclave — most of whom have since returned — sparked heated exchanges between European leaders. On the show, hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart preview whether today’s emergency meeting can cool tensions, and what measures the Commission may propose to address concerns across the bloc. Next, a drought in Hungary and Romania could grind nuclear power plants to a halt since the River Danube has fallen too low to cool their reactors. Budapest and Bucharest are on high alert over the risk of an energy crisis in the coming days. Plus: The Belgium push to encourage young people to sign up for voluntary military service appears to have worked, as the program starting Sept. 1 is already fully booked. Are you taking part in voluntary military service, in Belgium or elsewhere? We’re intrigued. Get in touch on our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29.…

The crisis in the Spanish territory of Ceuta is adding fuel to Europe’s bitter debate over migration. Following the arrival of more than 50,000 migrants in Ceuta in northern Africa last week, EU leaders ganged up on Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez over his migration policies. Although 48,300 migrants had returned to Morocco by late Friday, the backlash is ongoing. On Tuesday the EU is set to hold an urgent meeting of interior ministers to figure out next steps. Hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart discuss the incident. Next, European Ombudsman Teresa Anjinho warns that growing global crises can’t become an excuse for secrecy in the EU’s institutions. She says that more than a third of the complaints she receives are about transparency. Plus: French President Emmanuel Macron’s team is looking for Saudi funding for a manga theme park near Paris. Get in touch with us! Send us a message or voice note to our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. This episode was produced by Saga Ringmar. Learn more about your ad…

Wildfires may sound remote — something that happens deep in a forest or on an empty mountainside. But in Europe, there’s often very little distance between nature and major population centers. That’s why the fires near Bordeaux and Madrid have been so frightening: they’re not burning somewhere far away, but threatening homes, businesses and entire urban regions. European countries are responding by sending planes, helicopters and hundreds of firefighters to help one another. But while Europe has built an effective system for reacting once the flames are raging, it’s still struggling with the less dramatic work of prevention. POLITICO senior climate reporter Zia Weise joins host Sarah Wheaton, sustainability reporter Marianne Gros and Agnes Rønberg from the agriculture team to examine how abandoned land, poorly managed forests and disappearing livestock are making fires harder to control. They also unpack the growing bill for homes, farms and businesses — and how the costs eventually spread to insurers and…

Brussels may have entered summer mode, but one of the first big political moments everyone will be watching when they return to work is Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s State of the Union address in September. And officials still at their desks are scrambling to make sure the she has something to say. Hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Sarah Wheaton discuss some of the policy areas von der Leyen might want to emphasize ... and others she may want to avoid. Next, as the EU’s AI Office gains sweeping new powers to scrutinize the companies behind systems like ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini, we explain why this move is bigger than just than another piece of tech regulation. Plus: Industrial chicken farms might be accelerating the spread of a diarrhea-causing bacteria. But what does that mean if you’re an avid consumer of poultry? Get in touch with us! Send us a message or voice note to our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Poland’s once-dominant Law and Justice party has split, with former PM Mateusz Morawiecki breaking with longtime leader Jarosław Kaczyński and preparing to build a rival force on the right. Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart examine whether the rupture offers current PM Donald Tusk a lifeline ahead of the 2027 election — and what it means in Brussels, where Morawiecki leads the European Conservatives and Reformists party. They also look at plans to close Belgium’s Charleroi Airport for several months in 2028, leaving more than 10 million annual passengers, thousands of workers and Ryanair up in the air. Plus: As Montenegro moves closer to EU membership, Brussels prepares to add Montenegrin as the bloc’s 25th official language. Want to get in touch? Send us a message or voice note to our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wildfires raging across France and Spain have forced more than 300,000 people from their homes and stretched national firefighting services to their limits. Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart look at how the EU is helping through its Civil Protection Mechanism and rescEU emergency reserve — and why Brussels says that even dozens more firefighting planes would not be enough without much greater investment in prevention. Then, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy heads to Washington amid signs that U.S. President Donald Trump and parts of the MAGA movement may be warming towards Kyiv. But will the apparent change of heart translate into sanctions against Russia and concrete military support? Plus: Could antibodies produced by llamas provide farmers with a safer alternative to chemical pesticides?Want to get in touch? Send us a message or voice note to our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Icelanders begin voting on whether to restart accession talks with the European Union, reopening a debate shaped by security fears, economic uncertainty and the question of who controls the country’s fishing waters. Zoya Sheftalovich and Kathryn Carlson also examine Donald Trump’s threat of new tariffs after the EU fined Google €890 million, and what that could mean for the fragile Turnberry trade deal. Plus: Beethoven, Marie Skłodowska-Curie or a kingfisher? Europeans get a say on the next generation of euro banknotes. Which would you choose? Send us a message or voice note to our WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices