Tag

Charles Michel

All articles tagged with #charles michel

politics1 year ago

EU Leaders Clash with Hungary Over Diplomatic Disputes

European Council President Charles Michel has reprimanded Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for his self-declared "peace missions" to various global capitals, stating that Hungary's rotating presidency of the Council has no mandate to represent the EU internationally. Michel emphasized the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine and rejected Orbán's claims of a pro-war policy. This comes amid criticism of Hungary's handling of the Council presidency, with several countries and the European Commission boycotting Hungarian-hosted meetings in protest.

international-relations-defense1 year ago

"Charles Michel Urges Europe to Prepare for War"

European Council President Charles Michel called for Europe to shift to a "war economy" mode and bolster defense capabilities in response to the threat posed by Russia, emphasizing the need for EU countries to take responsibility for their own security. He highlighted the urgency of supporting Ukraine with military aid and called for using European budget and Russia's immobilized assets to purchase arms for Ukraine. EU foreign ministers agreed to allocate an additional 5 billion euros in defense assistance for Ukraine in 2024, and leaders of Germany, France, and Poland vowed more arms purchases and new initiatives to support Kyiv.

politics2 years ago

"EU Council President Charles Michel's Early Resignation Sparks Race for Replacement"

European Council president Charles Michel has announced his early resignation, triggering a race to find his successor before the European Parliament elections in June. His decision has sparked criticism and speculation over other top EU positions that must be filled by November. If a replacement is not found by the EU summit in June, Hungary's prime minister Viktor Orban could temporarily take the role, raising concerns due to his close ties to Russia. Michel defended his decision, stating that he is ready to take a "personal risk" and that normal procedures could be changed to avoid Orban taking the position.

politics2 years ago

"EU's Charles Michel Shakes Up Politics with Early Resignation for Parliamentary Run"

European Council President Charles Michel downplays criticism of his plan to resign early to run for a seat in the European Parliament, stating that there is ample time to choose his successor and that the EU has options to avoid Viktor Orban. His decision comes at a critical moment for EU diplomacy as the bloc grapples with maintaining momentum and support for Ukraine, handling issues in the Middle East, and managing disputes with China.

international-relations2 years ago

"EU's Presidents von der Leyen and Michel to Meet Biden Separately, Highlighting Unresolved Issues and Dim Prospects for Summit Deals"

European Council President Charles Michel will hold a bilateral meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden in the Oval Office, while European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen will join Biden for a walk through the Rose Garden after the EU-U.S. summit. This arrangement highlights the ongoing issue of determining who speaks for Europe on foreign policy. Michel and von der Leyen have a strained relationship, with recent tensions arising from von der Leyen's uncoordinated trip to Israel. Despite their differences, the EU and the U.S. are expected to release a communique showing little difference in their positions on Israel.

european-union2 years ago

"EU's Expansion: Charles Michel Urges Readiness for New Members by 2030"

European Council President Charles Michel has called for the European Union to be ready for enlargement by 2030, stating that "enlargement is no longer a dream." While eight countries hold candidate status, the accession process has stalled for many in the Western Balkans. Michel emphasized that enlargement should be a merit-based process, requiring adherence to rule of law, economic standards, and foreign policy alignment with Brussels. He also suggested that the EU's long-term budget and institutional framework should consider enlargement goals. However, the challenge lies in convincing Europeans of the enlargement project and ensuring their support.

politics2 years ago

Macron's Push for Strategic Autonomy Gains Traction in Europe.

European leaders are increasingly supportive of French President Emmanuel Macron's push for "strategic autonomy" away from the United States, according to European Council boss Charles Michel. Michel said that while there may be nuances and sensitivities around the table of the European Council, quite a few leaders think like Macron. Michel also defended his use of private jets and growing budget for international trips, saying it was necessary for the EU to engage more with the rest of the world.