EU leaders reject budget proposal, casting doubt on year-end deal
European Union leaders strongly opposed a new long-term budget proposal on Thursday, casting doubt on reaching a deal by the end of the year. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the plan "far too big" and "totally unacceptable." The proposed 2028-2034 budget, set at 1.62 trillion euros by Ireland, faces criticism from net contributors like Germany and Sweden over increased costs. It also drew objections from the European Commission and "Friends of Cohesion" countries seeking to protect farm subsidies and regional funds. European Council President António Costa stressed the need for agreement by year-end to avoid funding disruptions. Upcoming elections in France, Italy, Poland, and Spain could complicate negotiations, though missing the deadline would not immediately halt funding.