EU elections pressure Brussels budget talks on Ukraine aid
EU leaders meet in Brussels today to discuss the new European budget, high energy prices, and financial support for Ukraine, with talks pressured by upcoming elections in four of the five largest EU member states. The French presidential election in April 2027 is seen as particularly influential on the seven-year budget negotiations. Marine Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National leads French polls, advocating for reduced French EU contributions and opposing Ukraine aid, citing France's large state debt. She held a Brussels press conference to campaign on these issues, warning the EU could look very different within a year, and hopes Spanish ally Vox gains government influence. European Council President Antonio Costa aims for a 2026 agreement on the 2028-2034 budget, a year early, to avoid election disruptions. Talks remain stalled, with Italy's Prime Minister Meloni refusing to rush a deal, while Le Pen pressures President Macron against signing an agreement before leaving office.