Simone Tagliapietra

Guntram Wolff, European policy and defence expert; Elina Ribakova, specialist on Russia and war economics; Simone Tagliapietra, energy markets analyst. They discuss how Strait of Hormuz disruptions jolt oil, LNG and electricity prices. They examine Russia’s fiscal gains, risks to Ukraine’s weapons and financing, strains on Europe’s defence industry, and how the green transition and industrial policy shape energy and geopolitical resilience.

In this discussion, Bruegel’s economics experts—Jeromin Zettelmeyer, Simone Tagliapietra, and Reinhilde Veugelers—evaluate Ursula von der Leyen’s recent address on the EU’s future. They probe Europe’s economic vulnerabilities, the urgency for a cohesive Green Deal, and the pressing need for national reforms in housing and pensions. The conversation dives into technology’s role in productivity, challenges in the automotive sector, and the path to financial integration in the EU. They also tackle geopolitical challenges and the push for energy independence amid changing global dynamics.

Sven Hølsæter, CEO of Yara, warns one third of urea sails through the Strait of Hormuz and the hit to fertiliser could threaten crop seasons. Simone Taglia-Pietra, Bruegel research fellow, breaks down LNG supply shocks after Qatar’s shutdown and who feels the pain. Fiona Sincotta, City Index market analyst, tracks stock falls, oil gains, currency moves and inflation risks.