EU faces multiple challenges: internal consensus, border delays, defense spending, and UK relations
The European Union is simultaneously addressing several challenges: lack of consensus among member states, airport delays caused by a new biometric system, calls to increase defense spending against Russia, and efforts to fast-track a deal with the United Kingdom.
The European Union is experiencing several parallel developments affecting its internal and external policies.
First, Pedro Lourtie, chief of staff to Council President António Costa, is responsible for building consensus between capitals, but this task is becoming increasingly difficult, reports indicate.
Second, the EU is pushing to beat airport delays caused by a new biometric system that introduces photo and fingerprint requirements. The system is designed to stop criminals and visa overstayers, but it has left thousands stuck in line.
Third, Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal warned that failing to deter Putin would cost more than paying for defense. “Investing in deterrence today is far less expensive than paying for the consequences of aggression tomorrow,” he said as leaders met in Berlin.
Fourth, the EU is pushing for a speedy deal with the UK after the new prime minister. British EU Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds traveled to Brussels Wednesday for talks designed to keep planned agricultural and trade pacts on track despite the transition of power.
