EU states remain split over the bloc's next long-term budget
A European Council summit on 15–16 October produced no breakthrough on the EU budget for 2028–2034. Member states are divided between those seeking deep spending cuts and those defending cohesion funding.
A marathon summit of European Union leaders on 15–16 October failed to deliver a breakthrough on the bloc's next long-term budget. The agreement will determine how much the EU can spend on its strategic priorities from 2028 to 2034. After the talks, leaders said publicly that "the way forward is clearer", but national capitals appear to remain deadlocked over what that path actually looks like.
The main dividing line
Two camps have emerged in the negotiations. One consists of the so-called "frugal countries", which want deep cuts to the proposed budget. The other is the "friends of cohesion", who argue that cutting spending is not the answer.
Time is running short
Several factors add urgency. Next year, 10 EU member states will hold parliamentary or presidential elections, which could shift the political balance across the bloc. The European Parliament will also have its say on the budget.
France 24's programme "Talking Europe" discussed whether a deal is feasible this year with two Members of the European Parliament. The programme was prepared by Isabelle Romero, Perrine Desplats and Oihana Almandoz.
