EU leaders head into high-stakes budget battle as elections loom

AI Summary

EU leaders are preparing for a difficult negotiation over the bloc’s nearly €2 trillion budget for 2028–2034, aiming to reach an agreement by Christmas. Divisions over spending and the prospect of gains by eurosceptic forces in upcoming elections, particularly in France, are complicating the talks.

EU leaders head to a summit on Thursday seeking a deal on the bloc’s nearly €2 trillion budget for 2028-2034 by Christmas amid deep divisions over spending and fears that upcoming elections, particularly in France, could strengthen eurosceptic forces.