EU and Canada seek closer ties at Montreal summit
European leaders have arrived in Montreal for the EU-Canada summit to build closer ties with Canada. Talks span defense, critical raw materials, space and AI, with Donald Trump's shadow hanging over them.
European Union leaders have gathered in the Canadian city of Montreal for an EU-Canada summit. They aim to forge closer ties with Canada. The summit takes place under the shadow of US President Donald Trump, which shapes expectations for the outcome.
The summit is covered in the latest episode of Brussels Playbook, a podcast from Politico Europe. Host Zoya Sheftalovich speaks with Sarah Wheaton, who is reporting from Montreal. They examine what the talks could actually deliver, naming defense, critical raw materials, space and artificial intelligence.
Questions over von der Leyen's role
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is in Montreal. Back in Brussels, however, questions remain about her role in the EU's Covid vaccine deal with Pfizer, the pharmaceutical company.
Eurovision and Israel
The Eurovision Song Contest has revealed its lineup of candidates for 2027. The row over Israel's participation is far from over, and two EU countries are still on the fence.
Other topics
The episode also refers to a warning from the outgoing head of the EU Public Prosecutor's Office. He says the body will be "killed softly for doing its job."
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