The EU budget commissioner argues for an accelerated admission of Ukraine and an expansion of the EU in the Western Balkans. The conditions for Ukraine's membership would have to be linked to a multi-billion reconstruction program. He does not expect financial sanctions against Hungary via the rule of law mechanism until the second half of the year, says Johannes Hahn in an interview with Hans-Peter Siebenhaar.
By Redaktion Table
The EU needs to invest an additional €195 billion to become independent of Russian energy supplies by 2027. According to an internal document, the Commission is also pushing for a coordinated emergency plan for industrial shutdowns.
By Manuel Berkel
France's president sparked a debate with his Europe Day speech: Does the EU need a precursor to membership? There is sympathy for it in the community, but the aspirants react suspiciously.
By Till Hoppe
Europe is making itself independent of Russian oil – but a much bigger challenge is to do without Russian gas. The only option is a combination of energy savings and increased LNG imports, writes Daniel Gros of CEPS in the Viewpoint. European solidarity will also be important in this regard, he adds.
By Redaktion Table
EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson wants to improve the protection of children with a proposed regulation. But the proposal is full of controversial points. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has already become acquainted with one of them.
By Falk Steiner
Solar panels should pay off their costs more quickly for homeowners in the future. This is the aim of the Commission's draft solar strategy. The member states are also to significantly accelerate the construction of solar power with new programs starting next year.
By Manuel Berkel
