EU budget talks stall as leaders clash over spending

EU leaders failed to reach an agreement on the next seven-year EU budget during a summit in Brussels, with negotiations described as "very difficult" by German Chancellor Merz. The dispute centers on budget size and spending priorities. Net contributors like Germany and the Netherlands want a smaller, modernized budget focused on innovation and defense, while a group led by Italy and Romania seeks more funding for agriculture and poorer regions. The current proposal is around 1.85 trillion euros, down from the Commission's initial 2 trillion euro plan. Negotiations face pressure from upcoming elections in major EU countries, particularly France, where Marine Le Pen campaigns on reducing contributions. Leaders aim for a deal at the December 17 summit, though Italy's Prime Minister Meloni refuses to rush an unfavorable agreement. Further talks are scheduled for November 13 in Dublin.